​9:15 - 10:15 am       Keynote Address: Erick Meza, Sierra Club​​

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​Erick Meza is the current Borderlands Coordinator for the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter, and Permaculture educator from the Sonoran Desert. He will be speaking about the ecological damage of building the border wall and all of the destruction that falls in its wake.

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10:30 - 11:30 am     Author Spotlight and Conversation: "Dead of Summer" with                                      author Enrique Castillo

Join us for an intimate Author Spotlight featuring Enrique Castillo, a celebrated Mexican American actor, writer, director, and producer. Known  for his iconic roles in "El Norte" and "Blood in Blood Out," Castillo brings his experiences as a migrant child Farmworker along with his artistic vision  to life through his latest work, “The Dead of Summer.” This gripping tale unfolds in a remote desert hamlet near the California/Mexico border, where danger and supernatural elements intertwine amidst violent sandstorms and ancient legends. Castillo expertly weaves together themes of cultural displacement and ancestral struggles, grounding his characters in the rich tapestry of the Southwest. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore a profound narrative that challenges the boundaries of Chicano literature with the ease of a master storyteller.
 

11:30 am - 1:00 pm     Lunch: Tamales and Tacos for sale on the patio 


11:00 - 2:30 pm.          Keynote Address: Diane Maldonado, Songs from the Soil
 
Diane Maldonado's Stories from America's Agricultural Fields (An acoustic performance) Diane Maldonado is not just a recording artist; she is a captivating storyteller with roots that weave through the rugged landscapes of Idaho. once a migrant child, her journey has been anything but ordinary. She first emerged from the vibrant cultural melting pot of San Antonio, Texas, where she commanded the stage as the dynamic frontwoman of the acclaimed Tejano group, Amor y Pasión. Under her electrifying leadership, Amor y Pasión burst onto the music scene with their debut LP, "Sangre Caliente,” in 1998, igniting a passion that resonated deeply within the hearts of their listeners. Just two years later, they followed up with "Besa Besa," further solidifying their place in the hearts of Tejano music lovers. Now based in  San Antonio, Diane continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, infusing her performances with a rare blend of emotion and energy that  captivates audiences far and wide. Her story is one of resilience, rhythm, and relentless ambition, inviting listeners to join her on a melodic journey that transcends borders and speaks to the soul. Will you be part of the next chapter in her remarkable saga?

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Classes and Workshops

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4:45 - 5:45 pm          Free Time

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5:45 - 6:45 pm          Dinner provided by the Sahuarita Food Bank

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7:00 - 9:30 pm         Musical Event with Dr. Kathy Bullock

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An evening with Dr. Kathy Bullock  -- more details coming soon! 

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