Council kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month; honors Leonardo López, Carlos Montes and local artists

Los Angeles City Council members opened a series of Hispanic Heritage Month presentations by honoring community leaders, announcing cultural events and unveiling the city’s annual Latino cultural guide.

Councilmember Hernández served as the event’s sponsor and described the theme of "Viva la Resistencia," linking artistic and civic leadership to contemporary struggles. The Department of Cultural Affairs introduced the 2025 cultural guide and highlighted a gallery exhibit titled "Vive La Resistencia."

Councilmembers presented a certificate to Leonardo López, a longtime restaurateur and cultural organizer known for venues such as El Mariachi and community activities in Pico Rivera. "Que viva México," López said after receiving the honor; family members joined him on the dais.

The council also recognized Carlos Montes, described by members as a co‑founder of Brown Berets and a long‑time Chicano activist, and commissioned remarks from Francisco Letelier, an artist whose work was included in the cultural guide. Hernandez told the chamber that the El Grito celebration would continue at Grand Park with hours announced and invited the public to attend.

Why it matters: The presentation frames Hispanic Heritage Month as both cultural celebration and political expression, with programming across parks and public spaces and an emphasis on historical and ongoing activism.

What happened next: Councilmembers and cultural affairs staff encouraged attendance at upcoming events and invited colleagues to promote participation. No new ordinances or funding allocations were recorded in the transcript.

Ending: The ceremony included a short performance and a presentation of the city’s cultural-calendar brochure; councilmembers urged residents to attend the El Grito festivities.