For Immediate Release: July 27, 2012
Contact:Caroline O’Connor, Communications Director, 213-400-8401
Los Angeles labor federation leader on the passing of
Latina actress and SAG-AFTRA member Lupe Ontiveros
Maria Elena Durazo says that “Ontiveros was known as a tireless activist
in promoting significant roles for Latinos in Hollywood.”
(Los Angeles, Calif.) – Maria Elena Durazo, the leader of the Los Angeles labor movement, called television and film actor Lupe Ontiveros “a tireless activist for promoting significant roles for Latinos in Hollywood.”
“We join SAG-AFTRA in mourning the passing of iconic film and television actor, and union member Lupe Ontiveros.
Lupe Ontiveros often played the part of an immigrant or domestic worker; however, behind-the-scenes she was known as a tireless activist in promoting significant roles for Latinos in Hollywood. In 2010, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Association of Latino Independent Producers for helping to produce positive roles for Latinos in television and film.
Ontiveros’ commitment to diversity in the entertainment industry helped pave the way for the next generation of Latino actors to develop their craft and showcase their talents beyond limited stereotypes.
She will be greatly missed in the entertainment industry. We offer our condolences to her family and friends.”Maria Elena Durazo is executive secretary-treasurer of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO.
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