An iconic figure in the Puerto Rican Diaspora, Antonia Pantoja reigns as one of the leaders in community development and as a key figure in the founding of several seminal Puerto Rican institutions. Best known for the inception and creation of ASPIRA, Pantoja was dedicated to the self-determination of the Puerto Rican community.

Join CENTRO and ASPIRA as we celebrate the life of this iconic leader with Lillian Jiménez, director of the film on Pantoja's life, ¡Presente!, her life partner, Dr. Wilhelmina Perry, and Dr. Lourdes Torres, with CENTRO Research Associate, Jose Laguarta, moderating the conversation on Pantoja's professional and personal life. We'll grow to understand the evolution of Pantoja’s consciousness as a black and queer Puerto Rican woman, and the subsequent contributions of these identities to her professional development.

This Afternoon Tertulia will have simultaneous English to Spanish translation for virtual participants. Historically, tertulias – informal social gatherings where current events, art, philosophy, and more are discussed – have played a significant role in fostering cultural and intellectual exchange in Puerto Rico and Latinx communities around the world.

After the panel, join us for the unveiling of the Antonia Pantoja Exhibition housed in the CENTRO Library & Archives Reading Room!

Free and open to all!
Click here to RSVP in-person.
Click here to RSVP for virtual event.