We, the members of the Local Organizing Committee of the International Conference on Historical Linguistics 23, pledge to do everything in our power to facilitate the attendance of scholars from all nations, creeds, and ethnic backgrounds at ICHL23.  While we acknowledge that, in the current political climate, some serious roadblocks have arisen that we may not be able to overcome, we want you to know that we are committed to finding concrete ways to meet these challenges.  If you are unable to procure a visa, for example, or are facing other similar difficulties, please let us know, and we will do whatever we can to help.

As an institution rich in cultural diversity and inclusiveness, the University of Texas at San Antonio is proud to sponsor ICHL23, and hopes that our tradition of valuing and respecting people of all ethnicities, religions, and gender orientations will be abundantly evident to you as visitors.  As the city of San Antonio prepares to celebrate the 300th anniversary of its first settlement by Spanish settlers, we invite you to help us recognize our multicultural roots in a special series of events entitled “Las lenguas de San Antonio a 300 años:  Reconstructing the Linguistic Roots of a Multicultural City”.   San Antonio has never lost its intimate, deep-rooted relationship with our neighbor Mexico, and we look forward to celebrating this close, immutable friendship with you.

In the meantime, be assured that we will do whatever we can to make it possible for each of you to attend ICHL23, and to feel completely welcome once you’re here!