2025 Honorable Mention: Hispaños Unidos

The Junior League of Anniston-Calhoun, AL

This year, The Junior League Anniston-Calhoun collaborated with Hispaños Unidos to create an event celebrating Dia de los Muertos while educating their community about the holiday.  The event provided visibility and a sense of belonging for members of the Hispanic population in their area.  JLAC worked with members of the Hispanic community and the Southern Poverty Law Center to create and execute a Dia de los Muertos event that would educate non-Hispanics in their area while allowing the Hispanic community a place where they could share their heritage and culture in a safe space. The celebration brought together community members who spent the evening celebrating loved ones through photographs, memories and dance.  Latino Teen Dance provided traditional folk dance, authentic Hispanic vendors sold foods and crafts, and there were multiple ofrendas where people could leave gifts or light candles for their loved ones. Not only did this event elevate the brand of JLAC in the community, but it also exposed attendees to a culture they may have known little about.  Multiple women have reached out regarding joining JLAC, and plans are already in the works for next year’s celebration.  Congratulations to the Junior League of Anniston-Calhoun!