Alfredo Gonzalez was honored on January 24th with the inaugural Cindy Montañez Courage in Action Award for “…his tireless advocacy and strategic foresight on behalf of Latino community leadership.” Latinos LEAD board chair Juan Ramos welcomed the guests, including environmental and Latino community leaders. Six board members placed through Latinos LEAD recruiting services also attended.

“Cindy was not just a trailblazer in our community; she was a dear friend, a trusted peer, and a constant source of inspiration,” Alfredo said as he accepted the award. “Her legacy is one of courage and action—qualities that continue to guide me in my work and that are so desperately needed in the fight for equity and justice in our world today.”’

Latinos LEAD board member Mitch Menchaca, Executive Director City of Phoenix Office of Arts + Culture was master of ceremony, and the award was presented to Alfredo by Founding Latinos LEAD Board Member Stephanie Medina, Director of Community Relations & Public Affairs at Goodwill of Southern California. Alfredo, Stephanie, and Latinos LEAD Founder, Patrick Salazar recalled serving with Cindy–whose questions and ideas about the early plans and program models were instrumental in shaping the organization.

Alfredo encouraged guests to continue their devotion to civil rights: “To my fellow Latinos in this room: know that your courage and your actions are inspiring a movement. Know that your presence in boardrooms, in organizations, and in communities is breaking barriers and paving the way for those who will follow. Know that your leadership matters.”

Ceremony guest Ashley Martinez, board member at Pacific Crest Trail Association, got the message: “Alfredo’s unwavering commitment to conservation and his tireless advocacy inspire me, reminding me that true courage lies in taking action and making a meaningful impact in our communities.”