DeKalb County Commissioner Robert Patrick played host to a lively Hispanic Heritage Month event on Wednesday, putting the spotlight on two local leaders who've made their mark on the community. According to a press release from the DeKalb County Government, held at Eclipse Di Luna in Dunwoody, the gathering was a mix of music, dance, and camaraderie as people came together to honor Isabella Velarde and Victoria Chacón with the District 1 National Hispanic Heritage Month Trailblazer Award.
Velarde, a trailblazer in the aviation industry, and a native of Dunwoody, got recognition for her work challenging the norm as a first officer for Delta’s regional carrier, Endeavor Air. Growing up in Georgia after her birth in El Salvador, she's held titles like the former president of the Women in Aviation War Eagle Collegiate Chapter at Auburn University. "These remarkable women embody the spirit of resilience and service," Commissioner Patrick told DeKalb County Government News. Her efforts have inspired many women to chase dreams in a field where minorities and women are not frequently at the helm.
The event also honored Victoria Chacón, known for her entrepreneurial and media achievements. Chacón, an immigrant from Mexico, founded the pioneering bilingual newspaper La Vision, which has blossomed into a significant digital presence. Her contributions have been recognized far and wide, earning not only local but also international plaudits for her work in journalism and community service.
At the celebration, the importance of Hispanic cultural contributions to DeKalb was on full display—a testament to the county’s rich tapestry of diversity and, as noted by Commissioner Patrick, to the crucial role Hispanic leaders have in fostering community growth and progress. For further details on the celebration or inquiries, Aiun Nettles can be reached at 404-274-0342 or [email protected].
