2008 is a commemorative year for NCLR as it marks 40 years of impact and influence in the Latino community. Throughout the year, NCLR will celebrate historical achievements and highlight its current strength and prominence across the country. In addition, 2008’s U.S. presidential election marks an important time in American history in which NCLR will continue to be a voice for the Hispanic community and encourage active participation throughout the year leading up to the voting polls. NCLR is proud to exhibit its growth and success at the NCLR Annual Conference, representing the largest and most important gathering of the nation’s most influential individuals, organizations, institutions, and companies working with the Hispanic community. The NCLR Annual Conference has grown with its gente, providing a forum for people in the business of social change to learn about ongoing and emerging issues in the Hispanic community, connect with key community leaders, and generate partnerships with Hispanic community-based organizations.The NCLR Annual Conference consists of four days of the most thorough and cutting-edge workshops addressing critical issues in the Hispanic community, five key meal events before an audience of 2,000, and presentations from speakers of national and international prominence.
Past Conference speakers include Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY), Representatives Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Senator Barack Obama (D-IL), Wal-Mart President and CEO H. Lee Scott, Jr., the Reverend Al Sharpton, President of Mexico Vicente Fox, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa of Los Angeles, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R-CA), Governor Bill Richardson (D-NM), Reverend Jesse Jackson, President Bill Clinton, then-Governor of Texas George Bush, Ambassador and author Carlos Fuentes, and many more. Stay tuned for this year's speaker line up!
Conference also features special events connecting communities around a specific program or issue, such as the Diabetes Dash, the Helen Rodríguez-Trías Health Award Reception, and Education Training Institutes among others. But, it is not all work. The NCLR Annual Conference is known for delivering top-notch talent, giving attendees exposure to star performances, and creating lasting memories.
Latino Expo USA is a significant feature of Conference. It is a truly unique venue where companies and organizations can build and enhance their relationship with Latino consumers, the fastest-growing market with a reputation for brand loyalty. With more than 250 exhibitors and 16,000 attendees, the Expo is FREE and open to the general public.
