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Julián Castro        

Former Democratic Candidate in the 2020 Presidential Race; Former Mayor of San Antonio & Former Secretary of Housing & Urban Development

Politician, author, and analyst Julián Castro has distinguished himself as a strong leader and successful public servant for nearly two decades. A former Democratic candidate for President, Castro served as the 16th Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Barack Obama from 2014 to 2017, and as mayor of San Antonio from 2009 to 2014. Today, Castro serves on the board of directors of the LBJ Foundation and is a political analyst for NBC News and MSNBC. Castro serves as CEO of the Latino Community Foundation, the nation’s largest Latino-serving foundation. From education to technology to safe and affordable housing, Castro has been at the forefront of some of the most innovative partnerships, programs, and achievements in the public sector.

His memoir, An Unlikely Journey: Waking Up from My American Dream, is a candid account of race and poverty in America. His views on equality, housing, and the future of America have been sought by America Votes, The National Association of Colleges and Employers, New York University, and more. In sharing lessons learned from the struggles and successes of his political journey, Castro gives audiences insight into how any group can make a significant change when it comes to America's most pressing issues.

Speech Topics


Speech Topics

  • Urban Revitalization
  • Public/Private Partnerships
  • Education and Literacy
  • Technology and Closing the Digital Divide
  • Disaster Resiliency
  • Activism and Public Service

Activism and Public Service

At a time in our history when cynicism is easy to find, Julian Castro stands as an example of what can be accomplished with passion and dedication. Castro’s grandmother arrived in the U.S. an orphan immigrant from Mexico with only a fourth grade education. She was determined that her daughter, Rosie, would have a better life. She worked multiple jobs to provide for her, and Rosie became a vocal community activist. She ran for city council and even worked on other progressives’ political campaigns. Her determination and passion for improving the lives of others inspired her twin sons to do the same. Julian and his twin brother graduated from Stanford University and then went on to earn law degrees from Harvard Law School. Joaquin is currently a member of Congress and Julian went from city council member to Mayor to Cabinet Member of President Barack Obama’s administration.

When things can seem at their most bleak, it’s time for those who want change to stand up. But how to engage…and WHY engage? Can one person make a difference? What about a group? A movement? Castro’s own personal story is not only proof that the American Dream still lives, but he shows that there is still much to be done to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to fulfill their potential.

News


Senate confirms San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro as housing ...
Julián Castro, the new secretary of Housing and Urban Affairs, at the White House on June 4. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images). update 4pm. Through an aide ...

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