US President Barack Obama is having a lot of fun in his final year in the White House, and Michelle has never shied away from relaxing protocol in order to educate- as she did when she released a rap video.
In that vein, the pair are set to appear during this year SXSW festival in Austin, Texas. Obama would headline the interactive (tech portion) of the event, whilst Michelle, once again, would appear in a music related capacity.
“On Friday, March 11, President Obama will sit down with Evan Smith, CEO / Editor in Chief of The Texas Tribune, for a conversation about civic engagement in the 21st Century before an audience of creators, early adopters and entrepreneurs who are defining the future of our connected lives.” a statement from the organisers read.
“The President will call on the audience to apply their ideas and talents to make technology work for us – especially when it comes to tackling big challenges like increasing participation in the political process and fighting climate change. President Obama’s appearance is open to all SXSW Interactive, Gold, and Platinum registrants.” the statement continued.
“On Wednesday, March 16, First Lady Michelle Obama comes to SXSW Music to discuss the Let Girls Learn initiative, which aims to break barriers for the 62 million girls around the world who are not in school today, more than half of whom are adolescent.”
This appearance marks the first time in the history of the festival that a sitting President and first lady are participating in the event.
“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,” said Co-founder Roland Swenson. “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.”