In 2008 Portland Latino Gay Pride (PLGP) established the Annual Mariposa Awards. “Mariposa” is a slang term used in many Latin American countries to describe someone who is gay. For many, it was used in a disrespectful or derogatory manner. Portland Latino Gay Pride decided to change this by celebrating ”who we are” and taking pride in the “mariposa” inside of all of us. The Mariposa Award is an opportunity to recognize outstanding individuals and organizations making a difference in the community. PLGP is proud to announce the 2012 Mariposa Award recipients:
Ernesto Dominguez – Ernesto is a youth advocate and strong supporter of LGBT youth empowerment. He has worked in the public, non-profit, and private sector to make sure all youth have access to complete and correct information about their sexual health. He works with 8 local and national organizations to address issues of inequality in the GLBT youth community.
Arnoldo Jaramillo – Arnoldo works for Multnomah County Juvenile Department. He has been an employee for 15 years as a Juvenile Custody Service Specialist (JCSS). He is dedicated to his work with youth and consistently gives back to his community. One youth said, “He understands us and is easy going. He is like a mentor to me.”
Aeryca Steinbauer – Aeryca has nearly a decade of experience working with immigrant and LGBT communities in Oregon. She has played many roles in the immigrant rights movement in Oregon. She is passionate about building alliances across movements, particularly within and between immigrant and LGBT communities.
OYE: Opciones y Educación – OYE has been serving the Latino community and beyond since 2009. This group of volunteers, health educators, community health workers, and community activists — including several folks from Miracle Theatre Group/Teatro Milagro — is committed to bringing inclusive sexuality education to the Latino community in Multnomah County.
Recipients were nominated by members of the community and selected based on:
• History of community involvement and volunteerism
• Advocacy and support of the Latino and/or LGBTQ community
• Commitment to arts and culture as a means to educate and inspire
• Demonstrated leadership and dedication to social justice
The Mariposa Awards will be presented at:
Noche Bohemia – PLGP Opening Reception
Thursday, July 19, 7pm – 9pm
Q Center, 4115 N Mississippi Avenue, Portland OR
All Ages, Free Event, Public Welcome
For more information about the award, a complete biography of this year’s recipients, and to learn about this year’s celebration visit our PLGP website: http://latinogaypridepdx.com/mariposa-award/