A Celebration of Culture and Community
The Los Angeles River Center and Gardens, a public park celebrated for its Mission Revival architecture, lush gardens, and serene atmosphere, transformed into a vibrant Día de Muertos oasis on Thursday night. This event was organized by Carlos Eric Lopez, a Mexican-American photographer, entrepreneur, influencer, and Hollywood insider, as a way to honor the past, present, and future through the lens of Latino culture.
This year marked the fifth annual gala, which featured an impressive lineup of guests including Camila Cabello, Nicole Richie, Miguel, Edgar Ramirez, Lele Pons, Diego Boneta, Renata Notini, Max Greenfield, Tess Sanchez, Kelly Sawyer, Jamie Mizrahi, Taylor Zakhar Perez, Nezza, Natalie Morales, Michael Cimino, Xochitl Gomez, Valentina, Desi Perkins, Gloria Calderon Kellett, David Collins, and Elsa Collins, among others.
A Night of Reflection and Connection
The evening began with a Tequila Don Julio-fueled cocktail hour, where guests mingled with staff members who were dressed in traditional Calavera makeup, setting a festive and immersive mood. Lopez took the stage to explain the significance of the venue, highlighting its location in Lincoln Heights. He pointed out that behind the event space, there are lights from a Home Depot where one of the largest ICE raids occurred in Los Angeles. This historical context served as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by the Latino community.
Lopez’s message was clear: “What we are and who we are is love and familia.” The theme of love and family was evident throughout the event, with traditional Día de Muertos ofrendas—altars designed to honor departed loved ones—placed across the park. These altars served as a beautiful tribute to those who had passed, creating a sense of connection between generations.
Honoring Legacy and Influence
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Abuelita Award, given by Camila Cabello to her grandmother, Mercedes Rodriguez. Cabello shared heartfelt stories about her grandmother, emphasizing her bold spirit and influence on her life. She described how her grandmother's courage and determination inspired her to embrace her own boldness.
Cabello also spoke about her grandmother's career, noting that she was a translator, screenwriter, CEO of a movie production company, record label executive, and novelist. She reflected on the similarities between herself and her grandmother, both being artists, writers, and deeply connected to their families.
A Platform for Latino Voices
Carlos Eric Lopez’s commitment to empowering the Latino community extended beyond the gala. During the event, he announced the launch of TúTomorrow, a nonprofit aimed at supporting the next generation of Latino creatives and entrepreneurs. In partnership with the Hispanic Federation, two grants were awarded to Los Angeles residents to help them pursue their creative passions.
Jesus Perez, founder of Lucky Athletes, was honored for his work in creating opportunities for Latino youth through sports. Julieta Ramos received recognition for her contributions as a student and aspiring filmmaker.
Music and Memories
While the presence of music superstars like Cabello and Miguel added to the evening’s allure, the event also featured performances by Lupita Infante and DannyLux. Both artists delivered heartfelt sets that paid tribute to family and the importance of remembering those who came before us. DannyLux performed his song "Ya No Estás," while Lupita Infante honored her father and grandfather for their musical legacies.
A Lasting Impact
For many attendees, the event was more than just a celebration—it was a meaningful experience that left a lasting impression. Camila Cabello, who attended the event for the first time, expressed her gratitude and said, “This is a night that my family and I will never forget.”
The Día de Muertos gala not only celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community but also highlighted the importance of unity, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Through art, music, and personal connections, the event created a space where love, family, and legacy could shine brightly.
Post a Comment