01 March 2006

Governor to celebrate Hispanic Day on the Hill

Governor Kathleen Sebelius will welcome Kansas’ Hispanic and Latino leaders, community members and students to the Capitol this Friday for the annual Hispanic Day on the Hill. The day’s theme is “‘Education’ is your Password.”

“A good education really can open doors,” said Sebelius. “In addition, Hispanic Day on the Hill is an opportunity for Kansans to meet with legislators and other key policy makers to ensure their voices are heard in the Capitol.”

Hispanic Day on the Hill will begin at 9:00 a.m. with a Senate resolution honoring LULAC, the League of United Latin American Citizens.

At 9:30 a.m., Elias Garcia, Executive Director of the Kansas Hispanic and Latino American Affairs Commission (KHLAAC) will begin the program and at 10:00 Governor Sebelius will deliver a welcome. Award Ceremonies will follow Governor Sebelius’ remarks, and feature Janie Perkins, Mayor of Garden City, receiving the MVP Award (Most Valuable Politician) for 2006.

A “Buena Gente Amigos” Luncheon, beginning at 11:30 a.m., will include performances by Latin Lingo Dance Club from Garden City High School and Ballet Folklorico de Topeka.

During the afternoon portion of the event, featured speakers Dr. Gabriela Lemus, Director of Policy and Legislation for National LULAC based in Washington, D.C. and Rafael Collazo of the Mendoza Group in Philadelphia, PA. will conduct workshops regarding the importance of Education and Leadership.

For more information, please contact the Kansas Hispanic and Latino American Affairs Commission at (785) 296-3465.