Celebrating Leadership and Community: Academia de Conocimientos Básicos de Inmigración 2025
On October 16, 2025, Adelante Mujeres came together with partners, families, and community members to celebrate the successful completion of the Academia de Conocimientos Básicos de Inmigración 2025, a heartfelt evening filled with music, gratitude, and community pride. The celebration recognized the achievements of both women and men who, through months of dedication, learning, and service, have grown as leaders and advocates for immigrant rights.
The event opened with a moving performance by Gema Barragán Cruz, a talented Mexican-American vocalist and music education student at Portland State University. Through her voice, Gema honored her roots and inspired everyone with her passion and authenticity. Following her performance, María Dolores, a community organizer at Adelante Mujeres, offered a warm welcome and led the acknowledgment of the ancestral lands where the celebration took place.
Bridget Cooke, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Adelante Mujeres, spoke next, sharing a message centered on empowerment and collective growth. She reflected on the importance of education, leadership, and community as the foundation for justice and opportunity, reminding everyone that true leadership is rooted in service and compassion.
One of the most touching moments of the night came from Elizabeth Cerriteño Palmeño, a participant in the Immigration Academy. Originally from Mexico and trained as an attorney, Elizabeth discovered her passion for early childhood education after arriving in the United States. For nearly ten years, she has worked with the Hillsboro School District, supporting bilingual families and newcomer students. Her story embodies resilience, empathy, and the transformative power of education.
ISP Ambassadors with Bridget Cooke, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Adelante Mujeres
ISP Ambassadors: Building Bridges of Support and Solidarity
The celebration continued with the presentation of diplomas to our ISP Ambassadors (Immigrant Solidarity Program) community leaders who, for years, have dedicated countless hours to serving and uplifting immigrant families across Oregon. Their work includes offering guidance and advice, organizing Capsulas Migratorias (Immigration Education Sessions), sharing vital immigration information at community events, and advocating for policies that protect and empower undocumented immigrants, such as universal legal representation. Many of these women, also mothers, give their valuable time to strengthen and support the most vulnerable members of our community. During the celebration, their leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment were recognized with deep gratitude by the Leadership and Advocacy team at Adelante Mujeres.
Colibrí Awards 2025
The evening also featured a special moment of recognition with the presentation of the Colibrí Awards, honoring two extraordinary community leaders whose dedication and compassion have made a lasting impact in Oregon.
Sandra Martín, participant in the Immigrant Solidarity Program, was honored for her outstanding leadership in the areas of housing and immigration. Over the years, Sandra has been a powerful voice in key campaigns in Oregon, including Driver’s Licenses for All, the Sanctuary Promise, and the Universal Representation Act, among other initiatives promoting justice and equity for immigrant communities. She is a strong advocate for farmworkers’ rights and for the Indigenous communities of Mesoamerica, elevating their voices and standing for dignity and fairness. In addition to her activism, Sandra continues to serve as a doula, offering compassionate support and wisdom to people during some of life’s most important transitions.
Zulema Milagros Beltrán Aguilera, also a participant in the Immigrant Solidarity Program (ISP), is a deeply respected leader within the immigrant community of Washington County and across Oregon. Milagros has been a steadfast companion to migrant families during some of their most difficult moments organizing fundraisers, coordinating resources, and ensuring that families in crisis receive the support they need. Thanks to her efforts, many families have been able to say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity through repatriation support. She has also played a key role in community organizing during emergencies such as wildfires and has actively advocated for legislation that benefits the immigrant community. Beyond her leadership, Zulema is a mother and a joyful Zumba instructor, bringing energy, connection, and hope to those around her.
Through their example, both Sandra and Zulema embody the spirit of the Colibrí Award, a symbol of resilience, joy, and tireless devotion to community.
Gabriela Ordóñez, Director of Leadership & Advocacy | Magali Cruz, Inmigrant Solidarity Program Assistant | Maria Dolores Torres, Community Organizer | Sandra Martín, recipient of the Colibrí Awards 2025 | Zulema Milagros Beltrán Aguilera, recipient of the Colibrí Awards 2025 | Cristina Delgado, Immigrant Solidarity Program Manager
As the event came to a close, gratitude filled the room. The Leadership and Advocacy team extended heartfelt thanks to all who made this celebration possible: the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), the Oregon Immigrant and Refugee Funders Collaborative (OIRFC), Clínica Esperanza, the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District (THPRD), and the many local businesses and community partners who continue to walk alongside Adelante Mujeres in this shared mission.
The evening ended in celebration, gratitude, and community, honoring everyone who continues to build a stronger and more inclusive Oregon.