Actor Esai Morales was the star of the evening at the Aspen Institute Latinos & Society Program gala, where he shared an emotional recap of his 40-year career in Hollywood, emphasizing themes of perseverance, cultural heritage, and authenticity.
The accomplished actor, renowned for his performances in films like “La Bamba” and “Bad Boys” and notable television shows such as “Ozark,” “NYPD Blue,” and “Criminal Minds,” received the esteemed Variety’s Changemakers Award alongside the legendary artist Pepe Aguilar. This award celebrates Hispanic and Latino trailblazers who are redefining the entertainment landscape.
“There’s so much we share,” Morales reflected during a chat moderated by Clayton Davis, Variety’s chief awards editor. “We tend to highlight our differences too much, often being pitted against one another daily, which I find disheartening. The best approach is to connect with and support one another.”
A video montage showcasing Morales’ career accomplishments served as a precursor to his award, featuring clips from his recent role in Paramount Pictures’ “Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning” and a glimpse at his upcoming part in the sci-fi thriller “War Machine” directed by Patrick Hughes. He reflected on how his landmark role in the 1983 movie “Bad Boys” was instrumental in kickstarting his Hollywood journey, especially during a phase when he almost threw in the towel.
“I almost left the audition, having waited for hours, and pressed the elevator down button,” he recalled. “But then, something inside urged me, ‘Get back in there. You don’t give up. Your mama raised you to fight.’
While accepting his award, Morales conveyed heartfelt thanks for the chance to showcase his Puerto Rican and Caribbean identity on screen and for being welcomed by the broader Latino community, particularly Mexican Americans. He called for solidarity among Latinos everywhere.
Aguilar, a prominent multi-Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning artist, was also recognized for his significant contributions and innovations in Latin music. Having released 35 albums, he is celebrated for fusing traditional Mexican rhythms with modern influences in songs like “Prometiste,” “Tu Sangre En Mi Cuerpo,” and “Por Mujeres Como Tú.”
“Creating an album comes naturally to me, but staying true to my essence is the harder part,” Aguilar mentioned during a live video discussion from Mexico. “The music industry pushes you towards paths that might not align with who you are. I must remain resolute and continue pursuing my passion, irrespective of external pressures. That’s one of the most challenging aspects.”
Aguilar, who has dedicated years to celebrating Mexican traditions, mariachi, and bomba, shared insights about the transformation of his relationship with music over time and how his passion has only intensified.
“Music has been my lifelong companion through all my voyages, and that remains unchanged,” he noted. “I take pleasure in creating music, especially now that I’ve realized its significance transcends my individuality. This is the music I cherished as a child. I have a deep love and appreciation for Mexican folkloric music. At this juncture in my life, I cherish it more than ever.”
The gala, held in West Hollywood to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, also marked the 10th anniversary of the Aspen Institute Latinos & Society Program, an initiative focusing on highlighting how Latino Americans contribute to economic progress and effectuate national policy changes.
Entertainment for the evening was provided by Andy Abad’s band, “The Blue Agave.”
Additional accolades were awarded to Nathalie Rayes, former U.S. ambassador to Croatia, and Monica Lozano, co-founder and chair of The LA Local, who were recognized for their leadership, advocacy efforts, and pivotal roles in establishing the Aspen Institute Latinos & Society Program.
The evening also included the unveiling of the institute’s new logo and branding identity, dubbed Aspen Conexion, and marked the conclusion of executive director Domenika Lynch’s exceptional tenure. Lynch will step into her new role as the general manager of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, serving under Mayor Karen Bass later this month.
The gala wrapped up the Aspen Institute Latinos & Society Game Changers in Sports and Business Summit, a multi-day event that gathered over 150 C-suite executives from various sectors to discuss how sports can propel innovation, generate job opportunities, and foster inclusive economic growth.
