Lazos Celebration welcomes international student filmmakers

Posted by Jayme Blaschke
University News Service
April 9, 2012

Texas State University-San Marcos and the Center for the Study of Latino Media & Markets (El Centro) will welcome Latino student documentary filmmakers from around the world for a unique celebration 7-10 p.m. April 27 in the LBJ Student Center Ballroom.

The second annual Lazos celebration will honor international student filmmakers from Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Spain and the U.S.

Lazos originated as an extension of the Spanish-language documentary film festival “Puntos de Vista,” which is held at Texas State. In its second year, Lazos has grown into its own unique event, enabling Texas State faculty and students to celebrate with international Latino student filmmakers. At Lazos, attendees will be able to honor accomplishments, establish a network and “Embrace Latinidad.”

“The main purpose of Lazos is to encourage students to embrace their heritage and to create an opportunity for Latino filmmakers and students to network and share a common interest,” said Sindy Chapa, organizing committee president.

Lazos is a free event and open to the public. Food, beverage and entertainment will be provided. Mariachi Nueva Generación and Salsa del Rio will perform a variety of music styles. Robert Bard, president and CEO at Latina Style, Inc., will give the keynote address. Additionally, there will be an award ceremony celebrating the achievements of the international student filmmakers.

“Lazos 2011 was a first of firsts,” said Olga Mayoral-Wilson, PR director for the Center for the Study of Latino Media & Markets. “The camaraderie among the international visiting students and our Bobcats; their happiness upon being recognized in their art form; their in-depth analysis of social and global issues---these were just a few of the highlights that impressed me the most.

“Students have a unique opportunity to share with peers from other lands who share their same concerns and experiences in life, even if expressed differently,” she said. “It's a great opportunity to network in your own backyard and make new friends from countries other than yours.”

For more information on Lazos or to register for the event, visit www.masscomm.txstate.edu/cslmm/Lazos.html.

About El Centro

The Center for the Study of Latino Media & Markets (El Centro) (www.masscomm.txstate.edu/cslmm.html) is a guiding light on Latino-oriented media and markets in the United States at Texas State University-San Marcos. It hopes to generate research and knowledge about Latino-oriented markets, media and the new multicultural America. Also, it drives the engine of a series of complementary activities that enhance the academic, professional and business opportunities related Latino-oriented media and Latino markets.