Friday, April 24, 2009

2009 South Asian Summit begins Today

Release about an exciting national event by SAALT:

Today marks another important moment for the South Asian community.

250 individuals including representatives of 33 South Asian community-based organizations are gathering in Washington DC to address the pressing issues affecting the South Asian community in the United States.

With the nation confronting important issues including the economic downturn, reform of the immigration system, and the restoration of civil rights and civil liberties, South Asians have the opportunity to play critical roles in advancing progressive policy change at the local and national levels.

At the National South Asian Summit, participants will convey concerns to government agencies and policymakers; build advocacy and communications skills; and strategize, learn, and identify ways to work together and with allies. Learn more about the agenda here.

Highlights will include:
  • Keynote remarks by Sudhir Venkatesh at the ChangeMaker Awards Reception recognizing community activists and emerging leaders
  • Panels and discussions on becoming a more effective spokesperson; the economic climate; immigration reform and profiling; gender equity; the release of South Asian specific data from the 2008 Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund's exit poll; and more.
  • A national South Asian Advocacy Day including roundtables with government agency representatives and Administration staff, as well as a congressional briefing and delegation visits with congressional offices.
Not at the Summit?
Click here to view podcasts of selected sessions, which will be made available at the end of the weekend and through next week.