For Immediate Release: Friday, April 25, 2024
Contact: media@hispanicfederation.org
HISPANIC FEDERATION COMMEMORATES 35 YEARS OF SERVICE AT ANNUAL GALA AND RAISES MORE THAN $3 MILLION FOR ITS ESSENTIAL WORK
Gala was chaired by award-winning songwriter, actor, producer and director Lin-Manuel Miranda, who was joined by internationally acclaimed actor, director and producer Diego Luna, recipient of HF’s 2025 Premio Orgullo (Pride Award), political commentator and co-host of “The View” Ana Navarro, actors Tonatiuh, and Harvey Guillen, among others
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The Honorable Nathalie Rayes, RBC Capital Markets, Diego Luna, and the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights were this year’s featured honorees.
Photos available here with remarks from honorees available on HF social media in the coming days (preview available upon request)
NEW YORK, NY — Hispanic Federation (HF), the nation’s leading Latino nonprofit umbrella organization with a network of 780 partner organizations in 43 states and territories, celebrated 35 years of service last night during its annual star-studded gala at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Chaired by award-winning songwriter, actor, producer and director Lin-Manuel Miranda, and attended by hundreds of national Latino changemakers and luminaries, the gala raised more than $3 million in support of Latino causes for the third consecutive year.
Proceeds from the gala will support the Hispanic Federation’s vital work and mission in the areas of economic development, education, immigration, health care, and such as supporting immigrant communities, protecting the environment, and defending civil rights. Thanks to the funds raised at the gala, Hispanic Federation will also assist with addressing food insecurity, providing housing aid, increasing access to health care, offering workforce development assistance, and providing other essential social services to millions of Latino families in 43 states and territories.
“Over 35 years ago, Hispanic Federation was charged with building a brighter future for Latinos, a future where they can seize opportunities to grow and contribute to their families and neighborhoods, and help our nation prosper. Time and again, we have stood shoulder to shoulder with community leaders to overcome seemingly impossible challenges, such as when we brought attention to how Latinos were neglected during the AIDS crisis or when we assisted in the rebuilding of communities after 9/11, Hurricane Maria, and the COVID-19 pandemic. While we face serious national challenges today, I know that our collective of nonprofits, donors, advocates and policymakers is ready to meet this moment. The support we received last night is a testament to our strength and it is that unity that will allow us to continue to act boldly and lead no matter how the ground may shift beneath us,” said Frankie Miranda, President and CEO of Hispanic Federation.
“Last night, we came together to affirm our shared values and belief in the essential work and mission of the Hispanic Federation. The incredible energy and unity in the room remind us that when we join forces, anything is possible. This gala represents more than just an occasion; it’s a promise that together, we can inspire change, uplift our communities, and create opportunities for all. Thank you to everyone who gave with such full hearts and made it a night to remember,” said Gala Chair Lin-Manuel Miranda.
The gala’s program took place under the Museum’s iconic blue whale in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. It brought together hundreds of the nation’s leading philanthropists and influencers to support Latino causes. At the gala, the Hispanic Federation paid tribute to individuals and institutions working to inspire and uplift Latino communities nationwide.
This year’s Premio Orgullo (Pride Award), given by Hispanic Federation to exceptional individuals whose altruism, vision and talents have inspired and empowered Latinos nationwide, was bestowed to internationally acclaimed actor, director, and producer Diego Luna. Known for his work in “Y Tu Mamá También,” Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, “Andor,” and “La Máquina,” Luna is also a committed activist, using his platform for social justice and humanitarian causes.
“Everyone here is an example of what can be achieved when we unite and this is why this award means so much to me. Today we must appeal to our people, to the sense of community that exists in all of us. It is the best tool we have to promote awareness when navigating these dark and turbulent waters,” said Diego Luna.
The Honorable Nathalie Rayes, the 10th U.S. Ambassador to Croatia (Retired) and the first Venezuelan-American to serve as U.S. Ambassador, received the Humanitarian Award for her trailblazing and inspirational career in foreign service.
“It is a profound honor to receive the Humanitarian Award from the Hispanic Federation, an organization that has been a pillar of empowerment and justice for Latino communities. My career—from public service in Los Angeles to leadership in the nonprofit and private sectors and ultimately representing the United States abroad as Ambassador—has been shaped by a commitment to lifting others and expanding opportunity. This recognition celebrates that journey and reaffirms the importance of building a future rooted in inclusion and collective progress. As an immigrant and proud American, I carry this recognition as both an honor and a responsibility—to continue opening doors for all,” said Nathalie Rayes.
RBC Capital Markets received the Corporate Leadership Award for supporting a broad range of community investment in essential areas such as climate, workforce skill development, and providing fair and inclusive opportunities for prosperity.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to accept the Hispanic Federation’s 2025 Corporate Leadership Award on behalf of RBC Capital Markets and the RBC Foundation USA. Corporate leadership means showing up, investing in our communities and walking the walk. At the heart of our values is a commitment to making a positive impact for all the communities we serve. We firmly believe that the strength of our business relies on creating opportunities and opening doors for others, and we are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Hispanic Federation in advancing that mission.” Marcos Torres, Managing Director, RBC Capital Markets, Global Investment Banking
The Coalition of Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) received the Community Service Award for their work in advancing and protecting the human and civil rights of immigrants and refugees.
“It is a tremendous honor to receive the Hispanic Federation’s 2025 Community Service Award. For us, it speaks to the enduring partnership we’ve built with the Federation over many years. Together, we have faced challenges head-on, from tackling the COVID-19 pandemic to providing relief assistance to those impacted by the California wildfires and advocating for Latino college success. Our ongoing collaborative efforts in immigrant defense work are a testament to our shared commitment to advance human rights, social justice, and full inclusion for our nation’s immigrants,” said Angélica Salas, CHIRLA’s Executive Director.
Also in attendance were fashion designers Alejandro Barzaga and Pedro Juan Ramirez along with Albania Rosario, founder and president of Fashion Designers of Latin America (FDLA). Through an ongoing collaboration between FDLA and HF to highlight Latinx creatives, Alejandro Barzaga designed a special suit wore by HF President Frankie Miranda.
At the gala, cast members of Buena Vista Social Club performed several songs from the Broadway play.
Presenting-level sponsors of the HF gala included the following companies: Charter Communications, The Coca-Cola Company, Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo, Moet Hennessy, Merck, Metropolitan Park, Morgan Stanley, New York City Football Club, Popular Bank, RBC Capital Markets, T-Mobile, and Wells Fargo.
HF’s Gala President’s Circle sponsors were as follows: Brown Brothers Harriman, Toyota, and TelevisaUnivision.
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About Hispanic Federation:
Hispanic Federation (HF) is a nonprofit membership and advocacy organization, founded in 1990, committed to empowering and advancing the Hispanic community, with a focus on low-income, marginalized and immigrant Latinos. With programs in 40 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia, HF’s focus areas include immigration, economic empowerment, civic engagement, disaster relief, philanthropy, education, health, and the environment. HF also maintains ongoing public education campaigns and meets the organizational development needs of its member agencies through grant-making and capacity-building assistance.
