**Media Advisory**
AUSTIN, TX – Saturday, March, 11 2023 at 10:00 a.m., Black Brown Dialogues on Policy is
proud to announce its first Virtual Town Hall in partnership with Texas LULAC, the Texas
NAACP, the Texas Legislative Black Caucus, and the Mexican American Legislative Caucus
to discuss both the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in Texas
colleges and universities, along with work workforce diversity, and Ethnic Studies policy in K-
12 education in Texas.
The town hall will take place at www.facebook.com/TeamBlackBrown. Featuring a panel of
experts as well as students who will discuss the benefits of DEI programs and how they help
build more inclusive and welcoming communities. The panel will include:
•The Honorable Texas Senator Royce West
•Julia Brookins, Special Projects Administrator, American Historical Association
DEI programs are essential for creating a more equitable society and helping marginalized
groups overcome systemic barriers. However, some lawmakers in Texas have recently
proposed bills that would restrict or eliminate these programs. This virtual town hall meeting
will provide an opportunity for community members, employers, and legislators to learn more
about DEI programs and voice their support for them.
“Consistent with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), we believe that DEI
programs are critical for building a more just and inclusive society” said Angela Valenzuela,
Ph.D. co-convener of Black Brown Dialogues on Policy about the vital need for these
programs and hiring practices. “We also encourage lawmakers to support Ethnic Studies in
the K-12 curriculum.”
The virtual town hall is free and open to the public. We encourage community members,
university faculty, students, advocates, and lawmakers to attend.
For more information about the town hall meeting, please contact Angela Valenzuela, Ph.D. at
blackbrownpolicy@gmail.com.
WHEN: Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 10:00a.m. CST
WHERE: www.facebook.com/TeamBlackBrown
INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY: Angela Valenzuela, Ph.D.
Gary Bledsoe, Esq.
