Guests got to enjoy watching Body Art Performance by David Gilmore at Dia del Los Muertos event
‘Poderosas Para Siempre: A Celebration of Women Past & Present’ Event
By Bridget Campos, 10/31/2016
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PDFGuests and award recipients enjoy the night at MOLAA in Long Beach, Ca
An alter created by 84-year-old Ofelia Esparza inspired by the theme of the event: "Powerful Women"
Celebrating the power of influential women both then and now
The spirits were definitely alive that night at The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) for Siempre Mujer Magazine’s third annual Dia de Los Muertos bash in Long Beach, Ca on October 22nd. This year’s theme pays respect to women from the past that have made an impact in the world of art, culture, social justice, and political movements.
This commemoration ties in well with the upcoming Mexican holiday of Dia de Los Muertos on November 1st and 2nd, which celebrates the life of loved ones that have passed on. Guests got to enjoy Day of the Dead festivities that included calaca face painting, altar viewing, art exhibition, and musical performances by Melena and Ladies of Salsa, Entre Mujeres, as well as Girls Gone Vinyl.
“Our Día de Los Muertos event is a culturally-authentic and vibrant celebration of two worlds, the departed and those still blazing new trails today," says Ann Moreno Penn, MOLAA Board Member and Event Chair. “The event allows us to raise funds for our education outreach programs as well as recognize outstanding female innovators making a lasting impact in our art, culture and community.” It is also worth noting that within the past three years of Siempre Mujer hosting this event, they have generated more than $150,000, and all the proceeds go to MOLAA’s exhibition and art education for the community.
But the highlight of the event that cannot be forgotten is the Spirit Award bestowed to honorary guests: Maria Teresa Kumar, President & CEO of Voto Latino; Luz Maria Doria, Vice President and Executive Producer of Univison’s Despierta America; Maestra Ofelia Esparza, a former elementary school teacher turned alter maker; and Ana Patricia Gámez, an entertainment correspondent for Despierta America.
“I want to thank Siempre Mujer for this award,” Gámez stated, “My goal wasn’t to be an example. Six years ago, I was just a regular person working at a dollar store. Because of the kindness and support from the public I am where I am today...My family has always been my motivation. And that is what has made me a better woman every day.”
The awards were handed out by Vista L.A. host Patricia Lopez, who thanked these powerful women for being trailblazers to other Latinas that want to make a difference in the world, but also, stressed the importance of attendees too can make a difference by going out and voting come November 8th.
“This is a monumental time for all Latinos to let your voices be heard. So be sure to register in time to vote,” said Lopez.
Though Dia de Los Muertos is a celebration of the dead it also marks the important of life, because these spirits are never forgotten.
Photo Credit by: MOLAA.org and Luis Meza
