International Latino Cultural Center Re-Launches @ Annual Latino Film Festival In Chicago.

The International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago unveiled its new Brand and theme, Punto de Encuentro, during the Opening Night Ceremonies of the 17th Annual Latino Film Festival at the Art Institute of Chicago. Cristina Benitez, President of Lazos Latinos, presented the new identity to a sell out crowd of 700 before the opening night film, Lista de Espera.

The new design – Punto de Encuentro- relfects the center’s mission which is to develop, promote and increase awareness of Latino cultures among Latinos and other communities through film and video events, education and other art forms. Cristina Benitez explained that, “The ILCC is a meeting point for all Latinos and non-Latinos to experience the richness of the diverse Latino cultures. Because of the variety of art forms, this Pan-Latino cultural center serves to bring people together and promote history, art, dance, drama and film of our countries…it is a Point of Encounter.”

Pepe Vargas, Founder and Executive Director of the International Latino Cultural Center stated, “Punto de Encuentro reflects our desire to share and promote the wonderful talents of our heritage. We are proud to be the Punto de Encuentro (Point of Encounter) and we are committed to growing this vision so that people from all over the United States and the world will be able the experience Latino richness.”

The Chicago Latino Cinema was founded in 1987 as a nonprofit organization committed to promoting Latino culture and fostering understanding between Latinos and other Americans. In July of 1999, Chicago Latino Cinema changed its name to the International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago (ILCC) in order to accurately depict the organization’s mission. For more information contact the ILCC at 312 431-1330 or www.latinoculturalcenter.com