The College Hispanic American Students society hosted the 25th Annual Hispanic Issues Forum last Saturday inside the Hughes-Trigg student center.
Session speakers included Roberto Alonzo, Dr. José Ãngel Gutierrez, Fernando Dubove and an opening speech from SMU’s Dean of Meadow’s School of the Arts, José Antonio Bowen.
Bowen emphasized the importance of continually striving for the best and keeping ambitions a high priority.
“Don’t underestimate the power of having a dream. Do not give up on the dream. You can’t win if you don’t enter,” Bowen said.
The speakers also spotlighted the accomplishments of the local Hispanic community.
CHAS has been working on the event since last summer. The goal of the forum is to provide the Hispanic community with insightful information about topics such as immigration, health, the arts, politics and careers.
But SMU students weren’t the only people in attendance. Students from local colleges as well as high schools were present.
“I love helping out the Hispanic community,” said freshman Esmerelda Castro. “I know some of the schools are low-income and have [under] motivated students. This is a way to motivate them beyond high school.”
The forum was focused primarily on issues concerning the Hispanic community, but by no means was it unbeneficial or uninteresting to those unfamiliar with the culture.
“I was in Spain and we did a project on immigration. I’m here because I’ve been wondering what the big deal is,” said senior Christine Dougherty.
After almost fading out of existence, CHAS breathed new life into the forum, adding more guest speakers to rebuild the event.
The importance of pursuing an education after high school echoed throughout the halls of Hughes-Trigg.
The speakers also stressed the significance of obtaining as much knowledge as possible about certain issues regarding the Hispanic Community, such as immigration laws as well as politics.
“The forum will be open to clear questions students may have,” said sophomore Elsa Romero.
“The important thing is to be able to know as much as possible, and we’re providing that,” she added.
After 25 years of hosting the forum, SMU continues to reach out to students in order to provide vital information and encouragement for the assurance that these students’ futures remain bright.
“I believe in giving back because it’s good not only for education, but it’s just the right thing to do,” Bowen said.
For information on CHAS and its involvement on campus, visit people.smu.edu/chas.
