2025 Gala
Celebrate with us at our 36th Anniversary Dancing Under the Stars Gala, in which we recognize social justice champions who have been steadfast in their resistance in defense of immigrant communities.
Our gala will feature a 3 course menu from Mercado la Paloma's critically acclaimed (and Michelin guide recognized!) restaurants, an open bar with wine, beer, and agua frescas, a silent auction, an award ceremony to honor community leaders, and of course, live music and dancing under the late summer sky!
Tickets are now available for purchase at $200. Support Esperanza today!
Program Event
Yesi Ortiz
Master of Ceremonies
Natasha Mangali
R&B/Neo Soul Vocalist
KIA
Alternative R&B/Soul Vocalist
Chino Espinosa y Los Dueños del Son
Salsa Orchestra
Yesi Ortiz, currently with Latino Media Network, began her radio career in 2003 at Power 106. She produced the docu-series "Single w/7" about raising her sister's seven children, and co-hosted "The Collective Powered by Vevo," produced by Jennifer Lopez. Ortiz co-founded L.I.M.A. COALITION and remains active in community support and mental health advocacy
A proud co-founder of the mini-concert series in South L.A. titled The Rehearsal (featured in The L.A. Times and KTLA), she provides a space for artists to perform and gives audiences a chance to discover their new favorite artist in real time.
A first generation Filipina-American based in Orange County, CA, Natasha is a genre-bending chameleon, ready to refine her sound outside the limits of societal norms. Classically trained in opera and choral arts, vocal jazz and musical theatre studies, she has carved her own path while showcasing her prowess and adaptability in any and all musical genres.
Los Angeles-Based, Dutch/Indonesian "soulwriter" is making waves in the music scene with her compelling blend of Alternative R&B and Soul. Her music has been praised for its emotional depth and authenticity, and its sensually appealing and emotionally evocative neo-soul sound.
A dynamic group of musicians hailing from a variety of Latin American countries. Their diverse backgrounds come alive on stage, delivering an electrifying big band experience that blends the fire of Salsa, the swing of Cha Cha, the rhythm of Cumbia, and the flavor of Merengue, along with original compositions that light up every dance floor.
Our 2025 Honorees
Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights - LA (CHIRLA)
Sister Diane Donoghue Fierce Hope Award
For fearless leadership in social justice and advocacy for policies that advance justice and full inclusion for all immigrants.
For more than 39 years, the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) has empowered immigrants to push policies that promote freedom of movement, full human rights, and the vigorous civic action that strengthens this democracy.
L.A. Taco
Community Building Award
For their re-defining of local, authentic journalism that continues to serve the immigrant community.
Initially starting as a database for L.A.’s best taquerias and affordable eats, championing the “Taco Lifestyle”, L.A. Taco has proven to be an outlet for giving a voice to the city’s marginalized communities, underground culture, and everyday workers with stories often ignored by the mainstream.
California Immigrant Policy Center
Social Justice Award
For radical leadership in promoting equitable policy and local protections for immigrants.
For the past 29 years, CIPC has played a central and essential role in advancing a progressive statewide immigrant justice agenda. It helped pass over 30 pro-immigrant laws in the state — signature legislative accomplishments propelled by the organization’s ability to coordinate, convene and mobilize a broad and diverse array of advocates towards a common goal.
