April 3, 2002

SMU TO HOST 20TH ANNUAL HISPANIC ISSUES FORUM APRIL 13

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Media note: a scheduling conflict has resulted in the cancellation of Texas gubernatorial candidate Tony Sanchez’ appearance as keynote speaker for the Latino Explosion. Speakers Elvira Reina and Elba Garcia, previously scheduled for the 3 p.m. event, also are unable to participate.

DALLAS (SMU) — Southern Methodist University will host the 20th annual Hispanic Issues Forum from 2 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13, in the ballroom of the Hughes-Trigg Student Center, 3140 Dyer St.

The theme is “Latino Empowerment” and presenters will discuss the political outlook on the Latino vote and current issues facing the Latino community.

The event is free and open to the public.

• 2 p.m. Roberto Aguinaga, research coordinator with the William C. Velázquez Institute of San Antonio, will provide statistics and local, state and national voter demographics.
• 3 p.m. Latino elected officials will discuss their experiences holding public office.
• 4 p.m.tudent representatives of the SMU Cox School of Business and the SMU Dedman School of Law will present graduate school information.
• 5 p.m. Latino Expo, an interactive display will feature information from local and national Latino organizations.
• 6 p.m. Latino Explosion, a celebration of Latino music, food, fashion and dance will feature DISD School Board Member Rafael Anchia as a keynote speaker, sponsored by College Hispanic American Students (CHAS.) Tickets are $5 each, or $3 for SMU students.

For more information contact Fernando M. Salazar at the SMU Office of Hispanic Student Services at 214-768-4586.