This conference honors the trailblazing women who planned the first Hispanas Unidas conference 40 years ago, the vibrant leaders who have carried the torch forward, and the future generations who will continue to amplify our voices.

As we embark on this special anniversary celebration, we reflect on our shared history and the powerful stories of strength and determination that have defined us. This conference, themed "Raising Our Voice," is not only a tribute to our past but also a call to action for the future. We are here to explore, discuss, and strategize on the pressing issues that continue to affect us, and to forge a path forward that ensures our voices are heard louder and clearer than ever before.

You will have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders, policymakers, activists, and fellow community members through a series of insightful sessions, workshops, and panel discussions. From exploring the impact of policy on our lives to celebrating the rich cultural contributions of Latinas in the arts, and focusing on integrating self-care for balance in our lives, this conference promises to be a dynamic and enriching experience.

Together, we will continue to advocate for the rights and well-being of Latinas, empower each other through shared knowledge and solidarity, and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our community. Let this 40th anniversary be a reminder of our collective strength and a source of inspiration as we raise our voices and look toward the future.

Thank you for being here, and for being a part of this extraordinary journey. ¡Adelante!

Friday, September 13, 2024
4:00 p.m.- 6:00p.m. - Registration
4:30 p.m. - Latina Authors
6:00 p.m.- Bienvenida
Thiry Auditorium
7:00 p.m.- Recepción de Reencuentro
Enjoy bocadillos, refrescos y musica, Mall Area

Nuestra Gente: A Tribute to Hispanic Innovators and Dreamer​
A celebration of story through art and featured exhibitions. Nuestra Gente: A Tribute to Hispanic Innovators and Dreamer. After finding minimal representation of diverse voices in children's literature, artist Bernadette Peña founded Nuestra Gente: A Tribute to Hispanic Innovators and Dreamer™. A visual representation of storytelling, the collection highlights the global contributions and history of the Latino/a/x community, applying a multicultural and multigenerational approach to cultivating identity and cultural literacy through authentic narratives. Dressed as iconic figures of yesterday and today, children portray the individuals whose stories shaped and influenced the history and culture of society, bridging generations of trailblazers to the leaders of tomorrow.

Latina Authors
Meet and support talented Latina authors as they showcase their work at our event! You'll have the opportunity to purchase their books and get them personally signed. Celebrate Latina voices in literature and take home a piece of their inspiring stories

Raising Our Voice
The Raising Our Voice exhibition celebrates the voices of the past and present exploring stories, identity, culture, and experiences within our community. Led by Maestra Sharriah Martinez, this collection features works by students from the Young Women’s Leadership Academy. Proceeds from the Raising Our Voice collection will benefit student trips to art schools.

Hispanas Unidas Ofrenda
In remembrance of the women in service to our community, we honor their stories and contributions with the Hispanas Unidas Ofrenda. Curated by the students of YWLA and artist Bernadette Pena.

Saturday, Septem​ber, 14, 2024
Raising Our Voice: Hispanas Unidas 40th Anniversary Conference

8:00 a.m.- Registration Continues
8:00 a.m-8:50 a.m.- Continental Breakfast in the Mall
9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.- Plenary Session/Sesión Plenaria
Hispanas de San Antonio - Celebrating Our Progress, Recognizing Our Challenges, and Charting a Path Forward: This plática revisits the pressing issues of 1984, evaluates progress over the decades, and analyzes the current status of Latinas in San Antonio. It will set the foundation for the conference, grounding our discussions in past and present realities while inspiring future action.
Blandina "Bambi" Cardenas Flores, Ph.D.
Monica Cruz, Ph.D.
Hon. Maria Antonietta Berriozabal
Hon. Rosie Castro

Conference Schedule
10:15-11:15 a.m.- “A” Sessions/Pláticas “A” (sessions listed below)
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.- “B” Sessions/Pláticas “B” (sessions listed below)
12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m.- Lunch/Almuerzo
2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.- “C” Sessions/Pláticas “C” (sessions listed below)
3:15 p.m.-4:15 p.m.- “D” Sessions/Pláticas “D” (sessions listed below)
4:30-6:00 p.m.- Closing & Celebration

“Como Una Flor” Closing Celebration
Como Una Flor - Latinas, much like flowers, are vibrant, resilient, and diverse. Each one blooms in her own unique way, bringing color and life to the world around her. Just as flowers thrive in different environments, Latinas grow and flourish in various fields, overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities. Together, they create a beautiful, diverse garden that celebrates their strength, culture, and unity.

As our transformative and inspiring conference comes to a close, we invite you to join us for the closing reception. This special event celebrates the coming together of hundreds of Latinas who have empowered each other through shared knowledge, experiences, and support.

Enjoy a delightful spread of pan dulce, fresh fruit, and aguas frescas, and savor the sounds of a musical tribute to Selena. This reception is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our journey, celebrate our achievements, and look forward to the future with renewed strength and unity.