Leslie Sanchez, Acclaimed Author and Political Analyst, Honored During 9th Annual Spirit Awards

AUSTIN, Texas, May 12 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Leslie Sanchez, author and political analyst, was honored with the prestigious 2010 Spirit Award by the California Latino Legislative Caucus during a special ceremony at the California Legislature on May 3.  Senator Gilbert Cedillo (D-Los Angeles) Chair of the Latino Caucus and Assembly member Tony Mendoza, (D- Artesia) Vice Chair, hosted the ceremonies.

The Spirit Awards recognizes individuals who exemplify the spirit of the Hispanic community. The honorees have furthered the understanding and acceptance of Hispanic-Latino values, culture and traditions through leadership and service.  Many of them have overcome tremendous obstacles and now are leaders in their communities. 

Sanchez received recognition for her Achievement in Media.  Other distinguished honorees this year include: The Honorable Rosa "Rosie" Gumataotao Rios, Treasurer of the United States; Dr. Aliza A. Lifshitz, Editor in Chief of VidaySalud.com™; and the Honorable Frederick Aguirre of the Superior Court of California.  

"Leslie Sanchez has shown tremendous leadership and a continued commitment to the Latino Community.  Her remarkable accomplishments have been an inspiration and a true celebration of the Latino experience.  She has become a role model for all Latinos and it is our honor to acknowledge her achievements with 2010 Latino Spirit Award," said Senator Cedillo.

"I am an honored to be recognized by the Latino Legislative Caucus and proud to be counted among the ranks of such significant contributors to our culture," said Sanchez. "The flourishing impact of the Hispanic community on our nation's economy and the political arena is fascinating and hope-filled.  It's a privilege to help raise awareness and create opportunities for the Hispanic population in California and beyond."

The Latino Legislative Caucus created the Latino Spirit Awards in 2001 to celebrate the contributions of Latinos to the common culture of the United States and to motivate the youth of California.  Previous honorees have included musician Carlos Santana, boxer and philanthropist Oscar de la Hoya, activist Rigoberta Menchu-Tum, producer Moctesuma Esparza, actors Andy Garcia, astronaut Ellen Ochoa.

About Leslie Sanchez

Sanchez is founder and CEO of Impacto Group LLC, a communications and market research firm specializing in defining social and economic trends affecting women and the emerging U.S. Hispanic community. She is author of the critically-acclaimed -- You've Come a Long Way, Maybe: Sarah, Michelle, Hillary and the Shaping of the New American Woman and Los Republicanos: Why Hispanics and Republicans Need Each Other.

Sanchez was an on camera member of CNN's award-winning 2008 election coverage team.  She currently serves as Co-Chairman of Hispanic Alliance for Prosperity (www.HAPInstitute.net) and in 2010 joined the Board of Directors for Resurgent Republic (www.resurgentrepublic.com).

About the Hispanic Alliance for Prosperity

Founded in 2004 the Hispanic Alliance for Prosperity is a national non-profit organization helping Hispanics take part in the American Dream through education, research and advocacy.  The Hispanic Alliance for Prosperity is a proven Hispanic grassroots network representing the views of Hispanics who believe in economic freedom.  For more information please visit www.HAPInstitute.org.

SOURCE Hispanic Alliance for Prosperity