The Hispanic Forum of Mesquite (HFM) has granted the Abrazos Award to the City of Mesquite. At their annual Gala this year, celebrating their 20th Anniversary, HFM announced that Mesquite won the award for its partnership and promotion of equality throughout the community.
HFM was founded in 2005, to help the Hispanic community connect with municipal leaders and essential services. The word abrazo in Spanish means “hug,” and the award, in its fourth year, is given to a recipient who has supported the HFM vision and mission, through partnerships, volunteerism, and collaborations.
“Latinos are a culture of ‘huggers.’ When we meet you, see a friend or family member, we hug each other,” said HFM Founder and President Rachel Lopez. “Thus, we believed it appropriate to name our award the Abrazos Award, to show the recipient just how much they mean to us, just as if they were a part of our ‘familia,’ and show them how much we appreciate all they have done for our organization.”
HFM hosted Mesquite’s first Cinco de Mayo event in 2006, which has grown to become a huge annual cultural event for the community, now held in partnership with Mesquite’s Parks and Recreation Department. HFM raises money for student scholarships and has awarded more than $94,000 to Mesquite ISD and Dallas College students since its inception. The organization also reaches out to local high school students to teach basic life skills, such as financial literacy, automotive maintenance, and dressing for success.
HFM has served the community by building a bridge between the City and Hispanic citizens. Through special events and crisis response, HFM has been a vital partner and helps make Mesquite a stronger community.