WASHINGTON, DC – In a ceremony this evening at the Mexican Cultural Institute in Washington, D.C., Arturo Vargas, Executive Director of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund, received the prestigious Ohtli Award from his Excellency Arturo Sarukhán, Ambassador of Mexico to the United States.

The award is one of the highest honors presented by the government of Mexico and is being bestowed upon Vargas in recognition of his contributions to the empowerment of Mexican and Mexican American communities in the United States.

“Ohtli” is a Náhuatl word that means “pathway.” The Ohtli medallion, which has an image of footprints, symbolizes the pathway that women and men will follow.

“I am honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Vargas. “It represents the deep and close ties Mexicans and Mexican Americans share, and it is particularly meaningful given the climate of hate and fear so many in the community currently live under. This award inspires all of us to continue our very important work.”

The other award recipient this year is U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solís, the first Latina to serve as member of a President’s Cabinet.

“The NALEO Educational Fund commends Secretary Solís for this recognition that highlights her outstanding contributions toward the betterment of the Latino community.”