Founded on September 6, 2006, the Center for Chilean-American Studies (CCAS) is an organization which seeks to promote public awareness about the presence of immigrants from Chile in North America. As the center's founding constitution states, " Chilean-Americans bring a diverse heritage to North America." The motto of the organization is simply "Un mundo sin Chilenos es un mundo sin corazon." In English, this translates roughly into "A world without Chileans is a world without a heart."
A student at the University of Dallas began the organization in his dorm room on his campus in Irving, TX. Since then, the CCAS has experienced tremendous growth as flocks of Chilean-Americans at various universities around the country cooperated into forming the National Organization of Chilean American Studies (NOCAS). The CCAS remains autonomous from the NOCAS. The CCAS is currently searching for appropriate office space to accommodate increased interest coming from the Hispanic community in Texas and around the country.
Events
On August 28, 2008, the CCAS will host a talk from former Chilean presidential candidate, Nicolas Sagues. The event will be held at 7:00pm in Lynch Auditorium at the University of Dallas in Irving, TX. Mr. Sagues will be discussing the role of the United States in the Chilean Coup of 1973. Admission is free.
On August 30, 2008, the CCAS will be hosting their first annual Chilean Chili Cook-Off. The event will be held on the central mall of the University of Dallas. The entries will be judged by Chilean culinary expert, Carlos Zuberubermooverslav.
On October 25, 2008, diplomats from St. Joseph Academy in San Marcos, CA will visit the Center to discuss the contributions that Chilean-Americans have made to private schools in Southern California and, specifically, St. Joseph Academy.
On November 26, 2009, Maria Pia Sagues Cruz will host an "All you can Eat Empanada Extravaganza" to fundraise for CCAS, She will also be signing and handing out free copies of her bestseller novel "Is that a Tank I Hear?" about her experience during the Coup of 1973.
On February 23, 2009, the Chilean Weaving Guild of the Southern United States (CWGSUS) will be meeting to discuss the impact the Chilean Coup of 1973 had on the textile industry in South America. Refreshments will be provided.
On August 14, 2009, CCAS will host a visit from representative of the Center for Chilean-Japanese Studies located at the University of Tokyo. Topics to be discussed include the cultural benefits of Chilean-American immigration to Japan.
On January 18, 2010, CCAS will host an informal travel excursion from San Diego to Dallas. During the car ride, guests will be have the opportunity to meet Chilean-Americans and discuss the impact of illegal Mexican immigration on the reputations of financially responsible Chilean immigrants. The study tour will include a stop at a border patrol checkpoint, a deportation center, and a Dairy Queen.