The 83rd annual LULAC Convention kicked off today at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort & Convention Center.
This year's theme is "America's Latino Community -- Center Stage."
While the National LULAC Convention convenes leaders from across the country, thousands of Central Floridians can seek job opportunities, get advice on college applications and financial aid, take advantage of free health screenings, and medical advice or simply have fun and meet Latino celebrities at the free Expo.
"We chose Orlando for this year's convention because Central Florida is now home to more than half a million Latinos," said LULAC Executive Director Brent Wilkes. "We encourage everyone in the community to take part in this great event and visit our career center, health fair and corporate and federal agency exhibits."
Related story:"LULAC National Convention and Job Fair Opens June 29"
The LULAC Convention is the nation's premier Latino gathering and brings together leaders in government, business, labor and the community for a week filled with renowned speakers and important seminars addressing the issues that affect Latino communities most -- from immigration reform and education to health care and civil rights. Separate tracks for youth and young adults provide emerging Latino leaders with workshops on community service, leadership development, career opportunities and advocacy training.
"We focus on the most serious issues that affect our community," said LULAC President Margaret Moran. "At the same time, we celebrate our culture and our ties. This year, we are hosting a free concert, open to the public, featuring Tito Nieves and Jesse & Joy."
Tickets for the free concert, scheduled for Saturday, June 30, at the Coronado Resort and Convention Center, are available at corporate sponsored booths at the Expo, including Miller Coors, Wal-Mart, Comcast/NBC/Universal/Telemundo, Caesars Entertainment, and P&G.
