Los Angeles, CA (March 2025) – On March 7, 2025, Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) hosted the 34th Annual Latina History Day Conference at the JW Marriott Los Angeles at L.A. LIVE. This year’s theme, “INSPIRE: UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY,” celebrated the innovation and leadership of Latinas, encouraging attendees to harness their creativity to drive change in their careers, communities, and beyond. 

Bringing together more than 1,300 Latina professionals, advocates, and emerging leaders from across the country, the conference featured engaging workshops, thought-provoking discussions, and inspiring main stage speakers.  

The conference kicked off with an exclusive performance by Mariachi Las Mariposas de Garfield High School and singer Deyra Barrera, who was recently featured on Kendrick Lamar’s album GNX. Their music embodies the cultural richness and artistic excellence of the Latina community, setting an inspiring tone for the day. The morning program will also include special remarks from Alejandra Santamaria, President and CEO of LAist, whose work is amplifying Latino voices and ensuring journalism remains an essential resource for all. 

During the luncheon program, three influential Latina leaders took center stage: 

  • Elsa Marie Collins, Social Impact Strategist and Cofounder of This Is About Humanity, shared how storytelling can be a powerful tool for advocacy and social impact. 
  • Former Ambassador to Croatia, Nathalie Rayes, discussed the critical role Latinas play in diplomacy and public service on a global scale. 
  • Emmy Award-winning journalist MJ Acosta-Ruiz, of ESPN’s SportsCenter and Monday Night Football on ESPN Deportes, highlighted her groundbreaking career as a Latina in sports journalism. 

“With this year’s theme, we celebrate the ingenuity and resilience of Latinas who are shaping industries, policies, and culture,” said Helen Torres, CEO of HOPE. “Latina History Day is a platform to uplift our collective strength and inspire the next generation of leaders to create a lasting impact.” 

This year’s conference comes at a critical time, as communities across Southern California recover from the devastating wildfires that have impacted so many. Latina History Day provides an opportunity to come together, support one another, and foster resilience in the face of challenges.  

Workshops explored key issues such as wealth building, rebuilding and resiliency after the wildfires, and leadership through storytelling and innovation. The day concluded with the Comadre Network, providing attendees the opportunity to support Latina-owned businesses and meet Latina authors. 

“Latina History Day is a testament to the remarkable achievements and contributions of Latinas past and present,” said Laura Arciniega, Principal at The Raben Group and conference co-chair. “This event brings together over 1,300 Latinas representing various professional backgrounds and students who are inspired to learn from one another, celebrate our shared successes, and build a stronger and brighter future for all.”   

“Latinas are one of the fastest-growing entrepreneurial demographics, and their contributions to our economy are powerful,” added Patty Juarez, Executive Vice President and Head of Hispanic & Latino Affairs at Wells Fargo and conference co-chair. “HOPE’s Latina History Day acknowledges and celebrates the pivotal role Latinas play in our society while empowering them to reach new heights. We are honored to create a space where Latinas can connect, learn, and be inspired.” 

The conference was made possible by the support of The Estée Lauder Companies, Target, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Wells Fargo Bank, and other generous sponsors who are committed to advancing Latina leadership. 

About HOPE 

Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE)® is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that has empowered our communities through advocacy, Latina leadership training, and increasing knowledge on the contributions Latinas have made to advance the status of women for the past 35 years. To date, HOPE’s innovative programming has served over 60,000 Latinas and touched the lives of several thousand more through our advocacy. For more information on HOPE, please visit Latinas.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.