Cindependent Present Camilo Idobro’s Cruza El Valle
culture
Cincinnati Compass Recognize LULAC and LOEF Leaders
September 12, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — The city came alive with vibrant sounds and cultural pride as Cincinnati Compass hosted the fifth edition of Cincinnati Rhythm, a dynamic celebration of immigrant artistry and community leadership. Held in the heart of the city, the event showcased the rich diversity that defines Cincinnati’s cultural landscape.
🎶 The evening featured electrifying performances from a global lineup of artists, including Ijo Ugo, an African performance art company known for its powerful storytelling through movement; the Cultural Centre of India dance studio, which brought classical and contemporary Indian dance to the stage; and Son del Caribe, a beloved 11-piece salsa band that had the crowd dancing with their classic Latin rhythms. DJ Shemizo Ndetoh kept the energy flowing with an eclectic mix that bridged continents and generations.
🌟 In addition to the performances, Cincinnati Rhythm honored two outstanding leaders whose work has uplifted the Latino community. Lourdes Ribera, longtime president and now vice president of LULAC Cincinnati, received the Legacy Award for her decades of advocacy and service. Laura Castillo, a rising leader in public administration and active member of LOEF Young Latino Professionals (YLP), was presented with the Rising Star Award in recognition of her impactful leadership and dedication to public service.
The Latino community showed up in full force to support and celebrate their honorees, filling the venue with warmth, pride, and unity. The evening served as a reminder that Cincinnati’s rhythm is shaped by the many cultures that call it home—and that the beat only grows stronger when we celebrate together.
LOEF @ One Night Only with Pepe
September 4, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH — The Caribbean Eye film series welcomed to the Queen City as Dominican director Nelson Carlo de los Santos Arias made a special appearance for the screening of his internationally acclaimed film Pepe. The event, held at the Esquire Theater, drew a vibrant crowd of students, professors, and community leaders, eager to engage with the visionary behind this film.
De los Santos Arias, who made history in 2024 as the first Latin American to win the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin Film Festival, began his Cincinnati visit with a talk at the University of Cincinnati. Later that evening, he joined attendees for the screening of Pepe, a surreal and haunting meditation on memory, time, and identity—told from the perspective of a hippopotamus killed in the Americas. Pepe defies conventional storytelling. The film’s narrator, a disembodied voice claiming to be the spirit of the hippo, offers a fragmented, poetic reflection on existence and displacement. Its experimental style and philosophical depth have captivated audiences.
Among those in attendance were Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), Northern Kentucky University student Camilo Idrobo, and several University of Cincinnati faculty and students. The evening was hosted by UC Professor Mary Leonard, whose dedication to bringing global cinema to local audiences was celebrated throughout the event. Following the screening, de los Santos Arias participated in a lively Q&A session, fielding questions about the film’s themes, production process, and his artistic journey.
The event marked a significant moment for Cincinnati’s cultural scene, bridging international artistry with local engagement—and leaving attendees inspired by the power of film to provoke, connect, and transform.
AfriFest 2025
Las Posadas a Christmas Celebration
Cincinnati, OH, Dec 14, 2024 – The Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati Foundation celebrated its 17th Annual Las Posadas, a vibrant and joyous Christmas celebration that was free of cost and open to the whole family. The event was filled with Latin touches, including piñatas, carols, traditional Latino cuisine, and the beloved “Rosca de Reyes.” Additionally, a large exhibition of nativity sets from various countries was on display, adding a unique cultural element to the festivities.
This year’s celebration also served a noble cause by raising funds for economically disadvantaged children. The community’s generosity and support were evident throughout the event.
Laura Moese, president of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), attended the celebration with her family, showing her support for this important cultural event. Her presence underscored LOEF’s commitment to preserving Latino traditions for the next generation. Las Posadas continues to be a cherished tradition, bringing together families and friends to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community in Cincinnati.
OCHLA Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan Award Ceremony
Columbus, OH, Dec 9, 2024 – The Ohio Commission on Hispanic/Latino Affairs (OCHLA) held its prestigious Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan Award Ceremony at the Ohio Statehouse. This ceremony celebrated individuals who have worked steadfastly to enhance their communities for both Hispanics and the general public. The event also honored Military Service of Distinction awardees, recognizing Latinos in uniform who have served our country honorably and continue to contribute to their community, state, and country in exemplary ways. Additionally, the Nuestra Familia (Our Family) awards were presented to non-Hispanic individuals or organizations that encourage the inclusion of Latinos in Ohio and are committed to making Ohio a welcoming place for all.
Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan Awardees:
- Esteban Callejas (Henry County)
- Marie ‘Tonya’ Duran (Toledo)
- Lilleana Cavanaugh (Columbus)
- Karla Knox (Springfield)
- Francisco Okhuysen (Cincinnati)
Military Service of Distinction Awardees:
- George Plasencio (Toledo)
- Emily Almazan-Lacy (Cincinnati)
Nuestra Familia (Our Family) Awardees:
- Vanessa de Corte (Defiance County)
- Kevin Milliken (Toledo)
- Eric H. Kearney (Cincinnati)
This special event, by invitation only, saw the participation of prominent community leaders including Lourdes Rivera, President of LULAC Cincinnati, and Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF). Their presence highlighted the unwavering support and celebration of their colleagues’ recognitions, showcasing the strength and unity within the Latino community.
LOEF@BLINK- Newport KY
Newport, Oct 19, 2024 – Roebling Books & Coffee hosted an engaging event featuring a Summermusik performance and vibrant Mexican Folklore dances as part of their Blink celebration. The performances were graced by Alba Alzamar and Gabriel Martinez, both esteemed members of the LOEF Young Latino Professional Network (YLPN).
In a show of support for Latino cultural activities, LOEF President Laura Moese, along with board member Raquel Sotelo and YLPN member Alexandria Otto, attended the event. Their presence underscored LOEF’s commitment to promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Latinx community.
The event showcased the diversity of the Greater Cincinnati area and the community’s eagerness to celebrate and highlight it. Events like these are a testament to LOEF’s mission to support and uplift Latino cultural activities, bringing together people from all walks of life to appreciate the beauty of cultural expression.
LOEF Participates at the 3rd Hispanic Heritage Festival at Princeton High School
Evendale, OH – September 28, 2024 – The Latino community came together in vibrant celebration at the 3rd Hispanic Heritage Festival, hosted by the Princeton City School District (PCSD). The event, directed by the dedicated Ana Martinez, PCSD Family Coordinator, was a resounding success, drawing attendees from all its neighboring community.
The festival was a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Latino community, featuring an array of Latin food trucks, music, and dances from countries such as Mexico, Ecuador, and Panama. The atmosphere was electric, with the community enthusiastically participating in a Zumba class that proved especially popular among teenagers and women.
Children enjoyed craft tables and various activities, ensuring fun for the entire family. Local organizations, including health providers, realtors, and universities, were on hand to share valuable information about their services. Companies offered food samples and snacks, while the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) provided crucial scholarship information.
LOEF extends heartfelt congratulations to Ana Martinez and the PCSD for orchestrating such a remarkable event. The festival not only celebrated Hispanic heritage but also fostered a sense of unity and support within the community.
There truly was something for everyone at this year’s Hispanic Heritage Festival, making it a memorable day for all who attended.
LOEF@Immigrant and Refugee Law center Benefit
IRLC Hosts Benefit Gala Featuring “Exodus Alternate Documents” by Willy Castellanos
On September 25, 2024, the Immigrant and Refugee Law Center (IRLC) and its Executive Director, Mayra Jackson, hosted a benefit gala showcasing “Exodus Alternate Documents” by Willy Castellanos. Castellanos, a celebrated art historian and co-founder of the Aluna Art Foundation, presented this thought-provoking exhibition that blends documentary photography with artistic interventions inspired by the Cuban exodus.
“Exodus Alternate Documents” has previously won the Miami Foundation Arts Award for Best Cultural Event in 2014, and it continues to captivate audiences with its powerful narrative and visual impact.
The LULAC Ohio Education Foundation (LOEF) celebrates immigrants and their journeys, and proudly supports member Mayra Jackson and their work with the IRLC. This event underscores the importance of cultural expression and the contributions of immigrants to the community.
LOEF@Norwood International Art Show at Victory Park
September 21, 2024 –
Raquel Sotelo, who earned the Honorable Mention ribbon, and Victoria Garland, accompanied by her son Wyatt, proudly participated in the Norwood International Art Show. The event showcased a diverse array of artistic talent, with Sotelo’s recognized work standing out among the many impressive entries. Garland and her son enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere, contributing to the community’s celebration of creativity and arts.
The LULAC Ohio Education Foundation (LOEF) is very proud of their members’ accomplishments and continues to support cultural expressions within the community.