culture – LULAC Cincinnati

Las Posadas a Christmas Celebration

LULAC Cincinnati Event December 14, 2024January 1, 2025community, culture

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

LULAC Cincinnati Event December 14, 2024January 1, 2025community, culture, Ohio

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

LULAC Cincinnati Event October 19, 2024October 19, 2024Cincinnati, community, culture, Young Latino Profesionals

Alba Alzamar and Gabriel Martínez dancing the traditional Barba from the state of Veracruz, Mexico

Alexandria Otto, LOEF YLPN member, Laura Moese, LOEF President, Raquel Sotelo LOEF Board Member, Alba Alzamar, LOEF YLPN Member and her daughter.

Laura Moese, LOEF President, Alba Alzamar and Gabriel Martinez, LOEF YLPN members, and his husband Joey

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

LULAC Cincinnati Event September 29, 2024September 29, 2024community, culture, Education

Laura Moese, LOEF President and Ana Martinez, PCSD Family Coordinator

Elgin Card, PCSD Superintendent with Laura Moese, LOEF President

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

LULAC Cincinnati Event September 28, 2024Art, culture, Immigration

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

LULAC Cincinnati Event September 28, 2024September 28, 2024Art, culture

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.

LULAC@Compass Celebration

LULAC Cincinnati Event September 21, 2024September 26, 2024culture 0 Comment

With Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval

With Johan Lozano from Procter and Gamble.

With Jorge Pérez YMCA President & CEO

With Bryan Wright Executive Director of Compass Cincinnati

With Alfonso Cornejo President of Cincinnati Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

With Christine O’Dea Chair of UC Family Medicine and her husband

With Patrick Reynolds (next to Lourdes) Chief Operations Catholicism Charities

With Marie Kobayashi, ESL/Foreign Language Coordinator

With Leo Calderon, Esperanza Latino Center

LULAC Leaders Celebrate New Americans at Cincinnati Compass Event

September 13, 2024 – Lourdes Rivera, President of LULAC Cincinnati, and Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Education Foundation (LOEF), recently participated in Cincinnati Compass’s celebration of New Americans. This event highlighted the significant contributions of immigrants to the regional economy and the vibrant diversity of the community. Rivera and Moese took the opportunity to network, strengthen existing partnerships, discuss LOEF’s mission and future plans, and forge new alliances. The celebration featured a rich cultural exchange, with New Americans showcasing traditional dances, food, and art from their heritage, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.