Immigration reform and activism is the subject of the second annual Raza Youth Conference on April 28 at Sonoma State University. Sponsored by
MEChA (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan), registration is free and the event is open to all high school students.
The conference theme is "Empower Yourself, Empower Our Community." The conference focuses on immigration reform, recent raids, the separation of families, the congressional component and what students can do to help.
The goals of the conference are to empower, educate, politicize, and unify while exposing students to the university environment.
Keynote speakers this year are Miguel Molina and Alicia Sanchez whose comments are focused on inspiring students as well as getting them started for a busy day.
Students can chose one of many educational workshops offered during the first session and then attend a cultural/political workshop during the second session.
This conference includes a free lunch for the students followed by cultural entertainment. Aztec dancers (Danza Mexica Coyolxauqui) along with spoken word and karaoke are among the festivities.
The conference includes a career fair in which community members are invited to reach out to the youth and provide information on employment opportunities, community services and volunteer opportunities.
The following is a tentative schedule of events:
8 to 10 am- Registration
9 to 10 am- Keynote Speakers
10:05 to 11 am- Workshop Session I
11:05 am to Noon- Workshop Session II
*Everything from Noon-Closing will take place in the Rancho Cotate Field
12:05 to 1:25 pm- Lunch and Entertainment
1:30 to 2:30 pm- Information Booths
2:35 to 3:35 pm- Caucus Discussions
3:40 to 4pm- CLosing/Buses Depart
To register for the conference or to receive more information contact Nicolas A. Reyes, MEChA co-chair, ryc@mechadesonoma.org, at (707) 280-3867.
