ATLANTA, December 11, 2018 -The Latin American Association is presenting a new conference that addresses the impact of the booming Latino population in the state of Georgia. The gathering will take place on January 29 and 30, 2018 at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta.
Georgia’s Hispanic population has more than doubled since the year 2000, the fastest growth among the 10 states with the largest Hispanic population. And, Georgia’s demographics are changing as the Latino population continues to grow, impacting the economic, political and social fabric of our state.
The LAA’s 2018 State of Latinos Conference aims to start a statewide conversation about the growth in the Latino population in all corners of the Peach State. The first day of the conference offers an overview on the current state of Latinos in Georgia, with an emphasis on immigration and economic trends. The second day features concurrent summits on housing and education.
“Latinos account for 10% of the state’s population, and it is becoming clear that Latinos are having a massive impact,” says Aníbal Torres, the LAA’s executive director. “But in spite of the continuing growth, there is no statewide conversation around the significance of Latino economic and demographic trends and what they mean for local communities. This conference aims to do just that.”
U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta is the conference’s keynote speaker. Other speakers include:
• Alejandra Ceja, Executive Director, Panasonic Foundation
• Carlos Osegueda, Regional Director, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
• Rep. Rafael Anchia, District 103, Texas House of Representatives; Chair, Mexican-American Legislative Caucus
• Janet Murguía, President, UnidosUS (formerly the National Council of La Raza)
• Brent Wilkes, CEO, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)
• Ali Noorani, Executive Director, National Immigration Forum
• David Lubell, Founder and Executive Director, Welcoming America
Mariela Romero, on-air talent of Univision 34 Atlanta and winner of multiple Emmys, will be the mistress of ceremonies.