The Chicago Latino Film Festival attracts close 40,000 people annually. The program includes gala and more than 100 films from around the world that reflect the Latino culture and are seen at theaters throughout the city.
"The films are ours, they are showcasing the soul of the Latino family, which is international," said Chicago Latino Film Festival founder Pepe Vergas.
Vargas, an immigrant from Colombia, has received a number of recognitions from local newspapers, the state and the city for his dedication to showing the rich, cultural heritage, sophistication and diversity of the Latino community.
"When they see who we are then discrimination diminishes," Vargas said. "We get together to celebrate the contributions we have made to this society."
As the director of the International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago, Vargas also sponsors the Latino Music Festival with numerous concerts at various cultural locations in the fall, paying homage to Latin American and Spanish classical composers, aong with musical tributes representing various countries.
The organization's Global Latino Festival is Friday, Oct. 12, at the Broadcast Museum celebrating Latino culture, music, film , dance and music.
For more information: latinoculturalcenter.org
World Music Festival 2012 Schedule: http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/supporting_narrative/events___special_events/events/mose/world_music_festival.html
