The history of immigration to California goes back to the 17th century when European explorers arrived in California. Immigrants (documented and undocumented) account for over one-quarter of the state’s population and form a third of the entire labor force. They are an integral part of the state’s diverse communities. They make extensive contributions to our communities that benefit all.

This two-part lecture will examine the humanity and economic value of immigrants, regardless of their legal status. We will explore the socio-economic status of undocumented immigrants in Ventura and Santa Barbra counties, including the economic impacts of undocumented immigrants in various industries and groups. Additionally, we will examine the strength of independence between undocumented immigrants' social and economic interests and the entire community.

Jamshid Damooei (Ph.D.) is Professor and Director of Economics Program and Executive Director of the Center for Economics of Social Issues at California Lutheran University. He served as Director General of the Department of Economic Studies and Policies of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance of Iran. He worked as a Senior Economist for the United Nations Development Program and also as a Senior Consultant for the UN After leaving UNDP. Dr. Damooei frequently comments on the ongoing economic and political matters around the world with a focus on the Middle East and Iran in VOA, BBC and other international media. In 2017, he was recognized by Huffington Post as an Iranian American for seminal contributions to his field of study.

Dr. Damooei has conducted more than 100 studies and written reports in various forms ranging from peer reviewed to research projects commissioned by many for and non-profit organizations and foundations. In the last 20 years his research has been focused on economics of social issues; what he calls economic studies with a human face. He is the recipient of the President Award for Teaching Excellence in 2006, the Provost Distinguished Scholar Award in California Lutheran University in 2018, and the Outstanding Achievement in the Area of Research from the Advisory Council of the School of Management in 2021.