Music has played a consistent theme during his term, which is why it's no surprise South by Southwest (SXSW) announced President Barack Obama and First Lady of the United States (FLOTUS) Michelle as their keynote speakers at the festival later this month. This will mark the first time in its 30-year history that a sitting president participated in the event.
President Obama is scheduled to sit down with The Texas Tribune's CEO/Editor-in-Chief, Evan Smith, to discuss civic engagement on Friday (March 11) at SXSW Interactive. They will be speaking to an audience filled of entrepreneurs, creators, and curious minds. The president will also call on the attendees voice their opinions and ideas on topics like using technology to increase participation in politics and climate change.
Her husband won't be having all the fun. On Wednesday (March 16), Michelle will speak at SXSW Music in an effort to spread awareness about the importance of education and inform people about the 62 million girls around the world who are not in school as part of the Let Girls Learn initiative. Can you think of a better way to celebrate Women's History month?
“I can’t imagine a better way to celebrate our event’s 30th year than to welcome both the President and First Lady to SXSW,” Co-founder Roland Swenson said in a press relase. “As each new generation comes up at SXSW they look for ways they can be of service, and it’s important to reflect and support that message. President and Mrs. Obama’s visit here will inspire attendees to that purpose.”
In February, was announced as a special guest at the Democratic National Committee fundraiser at SXSW. J. Cole was enlisted as the musical entertainment for the event. It will also be held on Friday (March 11) at the Austin Music Hall.
More details about SXSW will be revealed in the coming days. South by Southwest events are as follows: SXSW Interactive will be held from March 11-15, SXSW Film from March 11-19, and SXSW from March 15-20.