Mi Casa's leaders spent the weekend in Washington, D.C. at the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) conference, which featured President Obama as the keynote speaker on the final day.
Picture: Director of Career Development, Karen Stran (left), Director of Youth and Family Development, Karen Fox (center), and Executive Director, Christine Marquez-Hudson, show off wristbands that served as tickets to hear the President speak.
The NCLR Annual Conference is the largest national gathering of influential individuals, organizations, and companies working with the Hispanic community. The conference provides a forum for people in the business of social change to learn about ongoing and emerging issues in the Hispanic community, connect with community leaders, and generate partnerships.
Mi Casa leaders attended seminars including:
- 2011 Legislative Update: How Will Congress Make a Difference in the Latino Community?
- Finding Their Voice: Empowering Latino Youth through Service Learning
- Parents Supporting Children: A Model for Engaging Latino Parents in Education
- The Business of Developing the Future Workforce: A Model for Entrepreneurship, Cultural Diversity, and Increased Earning Potential
When President Obama spoke, he addressed the issue of immigration and the growing concern among Latinos that comprehensive reform has now fallen to the bottom of his list of priorities. Yet, the audience was invigorated to hear this strong promise regarding Obama's intention to reform the nation's immigration system:
"We need a movement that bridges party lines, that unites business and labor and faith communities and law enforcement communities, and all who know that America cannot continue operating with a broken immigration system. And I will be there every step of the way."
Mi Casa Leaders Attend NCLR Annual Conference, Hear Obama Speak