KINGSTON, R.I. — September 20, 2001 — Award-winning satirist, political cartoonist, and Latino journalist, Lalo Lopez Alcaraz, will give a multimedia presentation at the University of Rhode Island on Tuesday, October 2. The presentation, free and open to the public, will be held in Edward’s Auditorium at 5 p.m.
“Lalo Lopez Alcaraz’s visit is part of an on-going effort to stimulate conversations about multiculturalism and diversity on campus,” said URI sociology professor Calvin B. Peters, noting that Alcaraz will take part in a conversation with the URI community following the presentation.
A one-of-a-kind cartoonist and writer, Alcaraz captures the essence of the country’s changing cultural and political landscape. Bringing a fearless Latino sensibility to his political and social commentary, Alcaraz is a fresh voice who is unabashedly pro-immigrant and advocates for Latino visibility in the media.
Alcaraz, who has been recently syndicated by Universal Press Syndicate, will show some of his favorite cartoons and undoubtedly share his irreverent wit during his presentation.
He has produced editorial cartoons for the LA Weekly since 1992. His cartoons have also appeared in the New York Times, The Village Voice, The Los Angeles Times, HISPANIC magazine, LaJornada in Mexico City, BUNTE (Germany’s People magazine), and many others.
His latest film project is in development with producer Gregory Nava (“Selena,” “Mi Familia”). His latest book is LATINO USA: A Cartoon History.
Alcaraz also co-edits the satirical magazine POCHO and the website www.pocho.com.
His appearance at URI is sponsored by a Hewlett Foundation grant, which is funding a variety of on-going projects at the University designed to encourage reflection and conversation about differences. The goal is to create space, time, and occasion for students from different backgrounds to interact, to involve faculty more fully, and to provide training and support for faculty and students as they engage in more authentic and meaningful dialogue about often sensitive and sometimes volatile issues.
One current project involves groups of URI faculty who met regularly to explore ways to incorporate multicultural perspectives in the curriculum and in co-curricular programming.
Part of the URI initiative, funded by the grant, is regularly scheduled public events featuring well-known and thought-provoking speakers such as Alcaraz. Last year, the grant provided funds for Spike Lee’s visit to the URI campus.
“This year, we hoped to expand our programming a bit beyond
traditional lectures, and we think weve succeeded,” said Sociology Professor Peters. “Were looking forward to an engaging and informative show from Mr. Alcaraz.”
For Information: Dr. Calvin .B. Peters, 874-4296, Jan Wenzel, 874-2116