by Zurellys Villegas
The Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) is set to light up the Kennedy Center stage with a night of star-studded celebration. The 37th annual Hispanic Heritage Awards promise to be an unforgettable event, highlighting the achievements and diversity of the Latino community in the United States.
This year, the gala will be hosted by talented actress and singer Annie Gonzalez, known for her role in the film “Flamin’ Hot.” Her charisma and energy will undoubtedly infect the audience and the millions of viewers who will tune in to the broadcast on Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).
The list of guest artists is a true delight for lovers of Latin music. Los Ángeles Azules, honored this year, will delight the audience with their iconic rhythms. Additionally, emerging talents such as Morat, Nathy Peluso, Cimafunk and Ximena Sariñana will get everyone dancing.
Leading figures from the entertainment, sports and business industries will also be present. Among them John Leguizamo, Emilio Estefan, Pati Jinich and La Familia Clemente, who will lend their talent to the celebration.
This year’s honorees include renowned designer Carolina Herrera, entrepreneur Rea Ann Silva, NBA star Carmelo Anthony and writer Julio Torres. In addition, a posthumous tribute will be paid to baseball legend Roberto Clemente.
“We are excited to celebrate our honorees and our entire Latino community through this event,” said Antonio Tijerino, President and CEO of HHF. “The Hispanic Heritage Awards are an opportunity to recognize the achievements of our leaders and artists, and to inspire future generations.”
The ceremony, which will air on Sept. 27 on PBS, will showcase the rich culture and talent of Latinos. The event will include emotional moments and surprises that will leave an indelible mark on the public.
A Month to Celebrate
The Hispanic Heritage Awards mark the official start of Hispanic Heritage Month, a celebration that runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. These dates were chosen to commemorate the anniversaries of independence of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico and Chile.
Since its creation in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month has been an opportunity to recognize the contributions of the Latino community to American society. Through cultural, educational and artistic events, the aim is to promote diversity and inclusion, and celebrate the traditions and customs of the different Hispanic countries.
On that date, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a law designating the week of September 15 as “National Hispanic Heritage Week,” according to the Office of the Historian and the Office of Arts and Archives of the U.S. House of Representatives.
It is a “great contribution to our national heritage made by our people of Hispanic descent, not only in the fields of culture, business and science, but also through their valor in battle,” the statement reads.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Hispanic Heritage Awards have become one of the most important events on the Latino cultural calendar in the United States. Throughout its 37-year history, they have recognized hundreds of leaders and artists who have left an indelible mark in various fields.
This year, the HHF continues its commitment to highlighting Latino excellence and talent. The Sept. 5 ceremony will be a testament to the growth and influence of the Hispanic community in the United States.
