Actress and entrepeneur Eva Longoria has always been deeply involved in defending the Latino community rights in the United States, as well as defending the importance for a comprehensive immigration reform.
Although Longoria was born in the U.S., both her parents are Mexican. That's why the actress has admitted she has a strong bond with her Latino roots.
Last night, at the 'Premios Tu Mundo' (Your World Awards), broadcasted live by Telemundo, Longoria was honored with the NCLR's "ALMA de Tu Mundo" award. According to People en Español, the award was presented by Telemundo and the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) to recognize Longoria's use of her fame and talent to help the Latino community and to create awareness on various philanthropic causes.
"The solidarity work is critical to our community, because by defending the rights of Latinos we are defending the rights of everyone. That's how we all can move forward together," the former Desperate Housewives actress said. "I feel very honored to be here because I was born in the United States, but I feel Mexican at heart," she added.
"Acting is my profession, but helping the Latino community is my passion and mission of life. That's why I created the Eva Longoria Foundation, to support the Latino community, which, as we know, is powerful, influential and has a limitless potential," Longoria explained in perfect Spanish while the audience burst in applause.
During the benefit Global Gift Celebrity Golf Tournament on August 3, Longoria said that to help people you don't have to be rich and famous, La Prensa reported.
The 38-year-old actress said she got her inspiration to participate in benefit events to help others from the women in her family. For Longoria it's more reasonable to help in small ways, "to think what I can do right now, in my community and in my foundation," saying she stressed that people give up because they think they can't help everyone, so they end up helping no one.
The charity's Global Gift Gala is aimed to raise awareness for children and the empowerment of women across the world and to celebrate those who support the cause.
Back in July, the Mexican-American star discussed the importance of equal access to higher education for young Latinos in the U.S., including undocumented immigrants, at the 2013 National Council La Raza (NCLR) in New Orleans, according to La Prensa.
Longoria also expressed her support for a comprehensive immigration reform, according to Fox News Latino. "We have to begin to see what it is that we're doing well, what it is that Latino men and women are doing to be able to navigate the (educational) system," Longoria said, referring to students known as DREAMers.
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