President Obama and Michelle Obama to Speak at SXSW 2016
President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will speak at this year’s SXSW, the festival has announced.
On March 11, President Obama will take part in a keynote conversation at SXSW Interactive. On March 16, Michelle Obama will give the opening keynote address at SXSW Music. The appearances will mark the first by a sitting President and First Lady in the 30 years of SXSW, the festival said.
The President will discuss “civic engagement in the 21st century” with Evan Smith, editor-in-chief of The Texas Tribune, according to a press release. The First Lady will talk about her Let Girls Learn campaign, which aims to address the challenges that currently prevent 62 million girls worldwide from attending school.
SXSW co-founder Roland Swenson said in a statement: “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. 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.”
Previously announced SXSW Music keynote speakers this year include Tony Visconti, David Bowie’s longtime friend and producer, and James A. Prince, founder of Rap-A-Lot Records. Visconti will be speaking on March 16. Prince will hold a conversation with Bun B on March 17.
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