30 years of impact: BGSU to host annual Latino/a/x Issues Conference March 18

Marking three decades of cultural visibility, this year's conference features award-winning storyteller Saul Flores

By Branden Ferguson

Bowling Green State University will mark a major milestone on March 18, hosting the 30th annual Latino/a/x Issues Conference. For three decades, the event has served as a vital platform for visibility, exploring the cultures, politics and social interventions shaping the Latino/a/x community at BGSU and throughout the region.

"The organizers of the first conference had envisioned that the conference would be a space to discuss issues that impact Latino/a/x communities," said Rene Ayala, executive committee member. "I believe it is important to continue to keep their vision alive and follow the lead of those who organized the first conference 30 years ago." 

This year's keynote speaker is Saul Flores, a Mexican-Salvadoran award-winning speaker, photojournalist and storyteller. In 2010, Flores walked 5,328 miles from Ecuador to the United States to produce a photo documentary capturing the experiences and challenges migrants face along the way.

Flores has inspired audiences nationwide through university events and appearances on major platforms, including National Public Radio, MSNBC and TEDx. His presentations have been recognized for helping students reflect on their values, develop their leadership skills, and identify actions they can take to practice those values in their communities.

"We look forward to Flores providing attendees with a more 'human-centered' look at migration that could inspire fruitful discussions about present-day issues related to migration," said Ayala.

In addition to the keynote speaker, BGSU undergraduate and graduate students will present research, poster presentations and creative work as part of the eSTRELLA Student Research Conference.

The event is organized by the School of Cultural and Critical Studies, Department of Ethnic Studies, ICS Latin American and Latino Studies Cluster, and Latino Student Union. 

For more information about the event, the keynote speaker, or to register, please visit the event page.