LBJ Museum of San Marcos 20th Anniversary Benefit Gala

January 17, 2026

LBJ Ballroom in the Student Center at Texas State University

6:30pm-10:00pm

The annual LBJ Museum Gala, held on January 17, featured engaging discussions on history, advocacy, and the contemporary political climate, all complemented by excellent food, drinks, and camaraderie. The keynote speaker for the event was Norma V. Cantú, an esteemed American civil rights lawyer and professor with a remarkable record of accomplishments. Cantú has previously served as the first Latina chair of the United States Commission on Civil Rights, participated on Joe Biden’s presidential transition agency review team, and acted as the Assistant Secretary of Education for the Office for Civil Rights.

Wayne Kraemer, president of the LBJ Museum Board and director of Texas State University’s LBJ Debate Society, introduced Cantú and reflected on the legacy of Lyndon Baines Johnson, who was also known for his involvement in campus debates. Cantú shared a poignant memory from her youth, recounting a Vietnam War protest she attended at the age of 16, during which her teacher’s car broke down amid the crowd. She drew parallels between that historical moment and today’s political landscape, stating, “People spoke up, voted, and were organized at that time, and they’re doing it again now.” She expressed pride in the work of the LBJ Museum, emphasizing its role in defending the First Amendment, truth-telling, and the importance of remembering our history.

Cantú also discussed her tenure on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, an institution established by LBJ, which maintains a balanced representation of four Republicans and four Democrats. She voiced concerns regarding the current political climate, noting that Rochelle Garza, the current chair of the Commission, received a letter from the White House requesting her resignation five years prior to the completion of her seven-year term. Additionally, she expressed apprehension about potential changes to the Voting Rights Act, funding for education, maternal health care, and immigration policy.

Despite these concerns, Cantú remains optimistic about the future, referencing the “Pendulum Effect,” which suggests that a significant shift to the right will be followed by a corresponding shift to the left. She envisions a future where the Bill of Rights not only endures but is also enhanced. To conclude her address, Cantú inspired the audience to echo the words of Barbara Jordan: “I am a whole person. My belief in the Constitution is whole. I will still be here at the next census. And I’m still here today.”