Latino Caucus Honors Latino Pioneers at Annual Spirit Awards
SACRAMENTO – Today, members of the California Latino Legislative Caucus honored distinguished Latinos making an impact in their communities and respective fields at the 13th Annual Latino Spirit Awards which coincided with the state’s celebration of Cinco de Mayo.
“It’s fitting that on Cinco de Mayo we celebrate the incredible accomplishments of Latinos making a difference in the lives of others,” said Senator Ricardo Lara, Chair of the California Legislative Latino Caucus. “From public servants to journalists and entertainers to athletes, our honorees this year are a snapshot of the strides Latinos are making in their communities, throughout the state and across the nation.”
Established in 2002, the Latino Spirit Awards honors Latinos/as in a variety of categories that range from athletics/sports, to public service and human rights. Many of the honorees are pioneers in their professions and have overcome tremendous obstacles, rising to become role models and community leaders. They serve as a reminder of the talent within the state’s diverse Latino community and are a source of inspiration to all Californians.
2014 Spirit Award Honorees
Members of the Latino Caucus including Chair Senator Ricardo Lara (D-Huntington Park/Long Beach) and Vice Chair Assembly Member Luis Alejo (D-Salinas) honored the following Latino Spirit Award winners on the Assembly floor:
• Hon. Cruz M. Bustamante, Achievement in Public Service Award
• Sebastien De La Cruz, Dynamic Youth Award
• Sheila E., Achievement in Arts & Entertainment
• Justice Irma Elsa Gonzalez, Achievement in Law & Public Service
• Mario Gutierrez, Achievement in Athletics
• Ezequiel Peña, Achievement in Arts & Entertainment
• John Quiñones, Achievement in Journalism
• Danny Trejo, Achievement in Arts & Entertainment
• Cain Velasquez, Achievement in Athletics
• Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE), Achievement in Community Empowerment
For complete biographies of this year’s honorees, please click here.
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Contact: Jesse Melgar (916) 651-4033/ Jesse.Melgar@sen.ca.gov