Honoring Latinas During Women's History Month
Over 600 women gathered to celebrate their culture and contributions

(Los Angeles, CA, March 14, 2008)

 The Latina History Day Conference, for which Latina History Day in California was created, drew over 600 women to celebrate the historic accomplishments of Latinas.  This year’s conference sessions highlighted the popular theme of “change” including: how to be an agent of change in the community, changing your financial fortune with a financial makeover and how to create new career opportunities. Special remarks were given by Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez, best-selling novelist of works including “Playing with Boys” and “The Dirty Girls Social Club.” Ms. Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez, not only moved the participants to tears in hearing the story of her Cuban father, but had the crowd up on their feet celebrating being brave Latinas by dancing! Ms. Valdes-Rodriguez was named one of Time magazine’s top 25 influential Hispanics in America, as well as Latina Magazine’s Woman of the Year. 

During the conference, HOPE in partnership with the Estee Lauder Companies celebrated the accomplishments of “Future History-Making” Latinas from the Los Angeles area. A “Future History-Maker” is a college age Latina that fosters a unique spirit of teamwork, innovation, passion and posses a vision that brings a community together and charts a new path of discovery. They strive for excellence and deliver their best efforts towards being positive role models and creating change. The five Latinas selected received a gift basket that celebrated their accomplishments and treasured their progress. The gift basket included a lavish contemporary make-up collection courtesy of Estee Lauder companies. In addition, the basket also includes a specially designed HOPE signature bracelet designed by Emma Diaz of Zerena’s Gems, who exhibited her collection in the Comadre Network. To accompany the theme of HOPE, artist Emilia Garcia has also gifted each history maker with a custom printed painting to symbolize Latina femininity and leadership. HOPE was also extremely happy to award each honoree a $200 check to be used for any of the multiple expenses incurred as a college student.

FEATURED PRESENTATIONS

Community Track
Dr. Leo Estrada
Latina Demographics Presentation 

Corporate Track
Nancy Marmolejo
5 Steps to a Winning Mindset