Houston-Area Latino Leaders Honored During Hispanic Heritage Month
Seven Houston-area leaders were recognized for their service and contributions to the community during Nuestra Historia, Nuestro Futuro: A Celebration of Latino Leadership & Legacy, a Hispanic Heritage Month event honoring those who have helped shape the region’s Latino community.
The celebration brought together community leaders, advocates and families to recognize both a history of service and the work continuing today. The event was organized in partnership with LULAC Council 60 / District VIII, the Consulate General of Mexico in Houston, and the Office of Harris County Precinct One Commissioner Rodney Ellis.
Honoring Latino Leadership
Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia and David D. Medina were among the first honorees recognized during the program. The portion of the program transcript available to Hispanic Houston does not identify the specific award category they received.
Millie Contreras received the Community Champion Award, which recognizes dedication to community service, advocacy and neighborhood engagement.
Dr. Laura G. Murillo and Maria Lira received the Trailblazer Award, honoring leaders who have opened doors, created opportunities and helped pave the way for future generations.
Sara Montelongo-Oyervidez received the Community Partnership Award, recognizing collaboration and commitment that have strengthened the community and brought people together.
Sabrina Salts received the Rising Leader Award, which recognizes an emerging leader making an impact through civic engagement, professional achievement, community involvement and advocacy.
Celebrating Culture Through Dance
The afternoon wasn’t only about awards. Ambassadors International Ballet Folklórico brought another important part of Hispanic Heritage Month to the celebration: culture.
The dancers filled the event with color, music and movement, giving guests a chance to enjoy the traditions of ballet folklórico while celebrating the accomplishments of local Latino leaders.
Nuestra Historia, Nuestro Futuro was a fitting theme for the celebration. Hispanic Heritage Month gives us a chance to remember those who helped pave the way, recognize the people making a difference today, and look toward the next generation of leaders.
Congratulations to Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, David D. Medina, Millie Contreras, Dr. Laura G. Murillo, Maria Lira, Sara Montelongo-Oyervidez and Sabrina Salts on their recognition and their contributions to the Houston-area community.
Sandra Fernandez is a professional communicator, tech enthusiast, book lover, and blogger. You can find her main blog at SandraSays.com and more of her writing at HispanicHouston.com.