Albuquerque expects $13M economic impact from LULAC Convention

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A mariachi band welcomed the first of over 10,000 folks expected to attend this year’s LULAC Convention in Albuquerque. 

“LULAC,” the League of United Latin American Citizens, kicked off their 94th annual convention Wednesday at the Albuquerque Convention Center.

LULAC was formed in 1929 to fight for equality for Latin American citizens in the U.S. Their attorneys have even brought landmark cases before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Albuquerque is hosting their convention for the first time since 2010. Now through August 5, the city will see attendees from across the U.S.

“LULAC itself convention is bringing about $13 million in economic impact to the city,” said Minerva Jurado Perea, destination director for the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce. 

Perea describes Albuquerque as a convention destination. Over the last seven years, she and her team have been working to get LULAC here.

“What is important for them to be here as a presence is to the community. Again, to emphasize on the Latino community, is to bring new jobs and grow the economy in Albuquerque,” said Perea. 

The convention is having an immediate impact on hotels. Looking online, nearby hotels are either sold out or priced higher now than at this time next week. 

“It all encompasses everything. From the moment someone flies in, they get a taxi. Then, they stay at a hotel, dine at a restaurant and visit museums. It all ties in into tourism and growing the economy here in the city,” Perea said. 

Part of the convention is the expo. Employers, like the Navy and TSA, are interviewing candidates on-site. Officials are also meeting with business leaders. 

Local artists like Sabrina Zarco are also taking advantage of a valuable opportunity. She is based in New Mexico and has had her works displayed internationally.

Zarco says conventions like these are important for her business.

“It’s a real boost to be able to have the exposure of having people from all over the nation who get my information or buy my piece. It is a big impact as struggling artists. Ever since COVID, it’s been a bit of a challenge, so being able to have this opportunity to network not only with other artists here locally, but people who are buying and collecting artwork,” said Zarco. 

For more information on the LULAC National Convention and Exposition, click here.