Define American

?? Define American is seeking a visionary web design and development firm to bring our newest project, StoryLab, to life! More than just a resource library, StoryLab will be a dynamic learning environment where media professionals and advocates can refine their approach to immigrant storytelling. Synthesizing Define American’s expertise across multiple mediums, StoryLab will make the complex landscape of immigration narratives more accessible, actionable, and impactful. Inspired by platforms like MasterClass and Khan Academy, StoryLab will transform research into engaging, interactive resources—including video-based lesson plans, quizzes, and storytelling toolkits—designed to help creators and advocates shift narratives on immigration in meaningful ways. We’re looking for a creative partner rooted in UX/UI and digital storytelling to help us build a visually compelling, interactive, and scalable platform that will shape the future of immigration narratives. Key Details: This opportunity is open to U.S.-based agencies only ?? Email of intent due: March 14, 2025 ?? Full proposal due: March 21, 2025 ?? Launch deadline: November 1, 2025 ?? Budget: Up to $150K ?? Read the full RFP below and here: https://lnkd.in/eA_GxhVY Know a firm that would be a great fit? Tag them below or share this post! Let’s build something transformative together. ??? #StoryLab #NarrativeChange #ImmigrantStories #DefineAmerican

Across borders and generations, women power the stories that define America's culture, creativity, and history ? #WomensDay #InternationalWomensDay #IWD2025 #EmpowerHer #WomensHistoryMonth #CelebratingWomen #InternationalWomxnsDay

?? We need to talk about Black immigrant representation on TV! This #blackhistorymonth we are reminding you that Black immigrant stories matter. At Define American, we're not just researching these narratives—we're working to shift them. Our findings from Change the Narrative, Change the World are more relevant than ever before. We know that media has the power to create meaningful connections between fictional characters and audiences. ?? Swipe through to learn more, and check out our research to see how storytelling can move the needle forward: https://lnkd.in/dyz8yjCh #Research #TV #ImmigrantStories

?? New Data Alert! Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI)'s latest research shows that 51% of regular church-goers now identify as Christian Nationalists, aligning their religion with anti-immigrant political beliefs. At Define American, we know that narratives shape beliefs and that beliefs drive policy. That's why we invest in research-backed storytelling strategies that shift public perception and build a more welcoming America. Now, with key data on the Following the Plan audience, we’re doubling down on engagement strategies that meet people where they are. Want to support research-driven, impact-focused narrative change? Let’s connect. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eCG6JCyd

At Define American, we’re committed to empowering immigrant communities and advancing ethical journalism. Our “Talking to Journalists” card, developed in partnership with PublicSource, helps sources understand their rights when speaking with reporters. We’re proud to see newsrooms like El Tímpano, a Bay Area Spanish-language news outlet, using it to protect immigrant communities while telling impactful stories. We’re excited to see newsrooms like El Tímpano setting the standard for responsible journalism. We encourage other newsrooms to adopt these tools to ensure immigrant sources are informed, protected, and able to share their stories with confidence. Read how El Tímpano is making it happen and urging other newsrooms to follow: https://lnkd.in/gwUMR2V9

??? ???#ICYMI:?Define American's, President and Founder,?Jose Antonio Vargas, took one of the biggest risks of his life this past Christmas—leaving the U.S. after 30+ years to fight for a chance at legal status. His story is a powerful reminder of the impossible choices undocumented immigrants face and the urgent need for real immigration reform. Read more about his compelling journey in The New York Times: https://lnkd.in/eHauHH-n Today, on his birthday, we celebrate and honor Jose’s unwavering commitment to humanizing conversations about immigrants. His leadership continues to inspire us to push for a more just and inclusive America, where everyone belongs. Thank you, Jose. ? #ImmigrantsBelong?#ImmigrantsMakeAmericaGreat?#DefineAmerican

Define American applauds the decision to grant our Founder and President, Jose Antonio Vargas, an O visa. Like the family and friends of so many other undocumented people in this country, we have long waited and wished for a way for Jose to continue his 30+ years of life and work in this country without the ever-present fear of deportation. As we often say, there are over 47 million immigrants in this country, meaning there are over 47 million ways to be an immigrant. Of those 47+ million people, an estimated 11+ million are undocumented. Each of these people has their own story, their own legal situation, and their own hopes, dreams and fears, and they are all integral members of our communities. Our work at Define American is to provide resources and research to help ensure that immigrant stories are told with nuance and authenticity. Together, we can redefine the conversation around immigration and identity, and foster a greater sense of belonging for immigrants across this country. For Jose’s full announcement and story, see the latest episode of "Define American with Jose Antonio Vargas" at youtube.com/defineamerican (linked below). #immigration #immigrants #immigrant #ovisa #visa #defineamerican #immigrantstories

Happy New Year! The Define American team is wishing you a wonderful start to 2025 ???? We want to thank you for all of your support over the past 13 (and a half!) years. We wouldn’t have made it this far without you. Let’s make sure this new year is the best one yet! ??

? It’s the final day to make your 2024 donation count! With your support, we can continue amplifying immigrant voices, shaping more inclusive narratives, and fostering empathy through storytelling. Every gift—no matter the size—helps us reach our goals and make a real difference. Together, we’re creating a future where all voices of America are valued and heard. ??? Donate today to help us keep the momentum going: defineamerican.com/donate

? This year, together, we’ve made a powerful impact! Thanks to your unwavering support, Define American has achieved so much: ?? Launched the 3rd edition of our Media Reference Guide, empowering storytellers to craft authentic immigrant narratives. ?? Sparked critical conversations at Sundance, ATX TV Fest, and SXSW, uniting artists and creators to amplify immigrant voices. ??? Introduced resources like the “Talking to Journalists” card to bridge understanding between immigrants and reporters. ?? Unveiled the groundbreaking "Move Them or Lose Them" research, shedding light on the “Moveable Middle”—an audience with the power to shift national conversations on immigration. But the work is just beginning. As our nation faces an uncertain political future, storytelling is more vital than ever. Join us in shaping a more inclusive story. Donate today and help us create the America we know is possible: defineamerican.com/donate #donate #immigrantstories #immigrantsmatter #immigration #immigrants #storytelling #cause