Join Latino community events in Illinois celebrating your cultural heritage. Find cultural festivals, professional networking events, religious celebrations, educational workshops, fundraisers, and social gatherings that bring the Latino community together. Stay connected with events that honor your traditions and create meaningful connections.
Join us for a 2-day conference focused on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and empowering environment where everyone can thrive and lead.
2026 HACE National Leadership Summit
Breaking Barreras: Cultivating the Power of Líderes
At HACE, we believe everyone has the right to realize dreams bigger than their circumstances. Our mission is simple yet transformative: to unlock the full potential of Latinos and diverse individuals for themselves and their communities.
This year’s Summit theme, “Breaking Barreras: Cultivating the Power of Líderes,” celebrates the courage to challenge the status quo and create new possibilities. Over two powerful days, barrier-breakers from across our community will come together for transformative sessions led by thought leaders and industry experts. Together, we’ll explore new pathways to growth, dismantle what holds us back, and transform the trajectory for the next generation of leaders.
By Cultivating the Power of Líderes, we honor our commitment to nurturing leadership potential across all communities—because when one person’s potential is ignited, it creates a ripple effect that strengthens organizations, families, and the broader economy.
Our HACE alumni don’t just break barriers—they create pathways. From teachers inspiring students to business owners and CEOs generating jobs, they represent what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. Join us in building a future where leaders rise, barriers fall, and communities thrive. Because we can be Más.
Explore Our Three Leadership Tracks
Join us for two transformative days of learning, connection, and growth as we explore HACE’s three core leadership pillars — Thought Leadership, Talent Acquisition, and Professional Development — through a dynamic lineup of sessions designed to inspire action and elevate leadership at every stage.
Track 1: Inspira — Inspiring Transformative Change
Pillar: Thought Leadership
Explore how Latino leaders are reshaping the future through courage, innovation, and purpose. This track centers on the personal and collective power of transformation — from financial wellness and cultural identity to resilience, caregiving, and the evolving role of humanity in an AI-driven world.
Sessions include:
Wealth con Propósito: From Money Mindset to Financial Momentum
Resilient Leadership: Bienestar & Healing en Acción
Invisible Barreras Navigating Immigration Issues in the Workforce
Caught in the Middle: Navigating Career, Caregiving y Cultura
Staying Relevant en un Mundo Powered by AI, Workforce y Inclusive Innovation
Track 2: Conecta — Pathways of Talent & Opportunity
Pillar: Talent Acquisition
This track focuses on opening doors, breaking barriers, and redefining what inclusive hiring and advancement look like. Through panels, data-driven insights, and interactive workshops, participants will gain strategies to expand opportunity and drive equitable workforce change.
Sessions include:
Breaking Barreras in Talent Acquisition: Opening Pathways to Opportunity
From Culture Fit to Culture Add: Reimagining Organizational Growth
Equity by Design: How Decades of Data Reveal Bias in Career Pathways
The Mobility Mindset: Navigating Job Hopping and Career Growth
Networks that Open Doors: Career Growth in the War Room
Track 3: Crece — Rising to Our Leadership Potential
Pillar: Professional Development
Designed for emerging and established leaders alike, this track helps participants embrace their authentic leadership style, strengthen resilience, and chart intentional career paths. Each session offers actionable tools and inspiring insights to elevate your impact and influence.
Sessions include:
Trailblazing with Resilience: Leading Without a Roadmap
Owning Your Power: Leading with Culture, Confidence, and Authenticity
Network to Lead: Building Connections that Count
Bridging Generations: From Management to Mentorship
Strategic Career Mapping: Designing Your Leadership Journey
Early Bird Pricing (Ends Dec 31 at 9:00 p.m. CST)
Lock in discounted rates now—apply the promo codes at checkout.
2026 National Leadership Summit (In-Person Ticket Only) — $550
Save $100 with code EARLYSUMMIT26
2026 Awards Celebration (In-Person Ticket Only) — $325
Save $50 with code EARLYAWARDS26
Summit & Awards Celebration Bundle (In-Person Ticket Only) — $900
Save $100 with code EARLYCOMBO26
Early bird discounts valid through December 31 at 9:00 p.m. CST.
Ready to Grow, Connect, and Lead?
Choose the track that aligns with your goals—or mix sessions across all three to design your own leadership journey.
** For more details on the full agenda, list of speakers, hotel & parking accommodations, and additional event information, visit HACE’s website to learn more about the 2026 Summit & Awards Celebration. **
Hotel Accommodations – Summit 2026
We are excited to offer a special room block for Summit 2026 attendees at the JW Marriott Chicago, located in the heart of downtown and just minutes from the Summit venue.
Room Block Details:
Discounted group rate available for Summit attendees
Rooms available on a first-come, first-served basis
Reservation deadline: March 31, 2026
After this date, the discounted rate cannot be guaranteed
We encourage guests to book early to secure their stay at the preferred Summit hotel.
Wednesday, 29, 08.00 -
Thursday, 30, 17.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Come and celebrate a day of Magic, dance and family fun. Parents you too! Enter to win in our Mechanical Bull contest!!! Children will be enjoying our activity line up with family games and races.
Sunday, 26, 13.00 -
Sunday, 26, 16.00
East Dundee,
IL
_$25
A circle for Latino Men Reenvisioning their role in Community
A monthly circle for Latino Men Reenvisioning their role in Community
February 22nd – Why are we here?
March 29 – Understanding Masculinity and Femininity
April 26 – Exploring Self-Love
May 31st – Compassion as a Practice
Facilitated by Ruben Gerena and Jupiter García
Rubén Gerena is currently an Assistant Professor and Department Chair of the Human Services department at National Louis University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Phoenix University and his master’s degree in Nonprofit Management from Spertus College. Rubén has spent over 25 years working with youth in Chicago. While mentoring youth in the Alternative school system, he helped to establish initiatives that have led to a large array of youth-focused programs across the city of Chicago that are still impacting communities. Some of these programs focused on addressing the trauma that has been experienced through gun violence and domestic violence. In addition, Ruben has been a part of city-wide initiatives in helping to address recidivism rates primarily in the south and southwest sides of the city, through increasing job readiness programs and life skills training that have been proven to decrease the number of individuals returning to prison. Ruben is also an advocate for Restorative Justice practices and is a circle keeper.
Rubén is also a Lucumí priest (Olorisha) and is ordained in the secrets of Obàtálá. Rubén is a drummer and has been studying Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba and Plena music and Dance since his teenage years. In addition, Rubén is a Drum maker and has taught youth and adults throughout the city to make their drums as a method of helping people reaffirm their own cultural identity. Currently, Ruben is the Board President of La Escuelita Bombera de Corazón, a leader in Afro-Puerto Rican arts.
Jupiter Garcia, a seasoned practitioner from Chicago, brings over 17 years of diverse healing experience. Coming from a lineage of curanderas, Jupiter's extensive background, rooted in Buddhism and Ifa, encompasses Reiki practice and teaching, chakra balancing, and access to the Akashic Records, providing multi-dimensional healing opportunities.
With a profound commitment to trauma healing, Jupiter has dedicated years to facilitating healing groups for survivors of childhood abuse and guiding ancestral healing work. This experience informs Jupiter's compassionate, trauma-sensitive approach to wellness and personal transformation.
As an experienced meditation guide, Jupiter leads bilingual meditation sessions that help participants cultivate present-moment awareness and inner peace. These group experiences are complemented by Jupiter's one-on-one coaching, where individualized guidance helps clients develop sustainable practices for emotional regulation, stress management, and enhanced well-being.
Jupiter creates safe, supportive spaces where healing can naturally unfold, anchored in ancient wisdom. Clients benefit from Jupiter's holistic methodology that addresses mind, body, and spirit connections, offering pathways to profound healing and personal growth.
Sunday, 29, 13.00 -
Sunday, 29, 15.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Come practice your Spanish speaking skills with others in a casual cafe setting! Registration not required.
Spanish Conversation Table: Highland Park
Come practice your Spanish speaking skills with others in a casual cafe setting. This free event is a great way to meet new people while engaging in spanish conversation. Talk over coffee and scones while you discuss movies, music, events, and more! Come anytime during the time frame, registration not required.
Last Thursday of the month: 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Thursday, 26, 15.30 -
Thursday, 26, 17.00
Highland Park,
IL
_$25
A curated shopping experience celebrating Womxn makers, entrepreneurs, and artists! Shop small and support local businesses.
Get in on the fun as we spotlight Womxn artists, makers, and small business Xingonas. Swing by and show some love for these incredible women and their handcrafted goodies, and jaw-dropping services. It's going to be a jam-packed afternoon of art, music, mouth-watering treats, wellness vibes, and a whole bunch of surprises you won't want to miss! See you there!
Shop from local Womxn-owned businesses, including jewelry, bath and body, home goods, apparel, snacks, and more!
Discover & connect with Womxn-owned service providers in the Chicagoland area including, financial services, counseling services, community builders, wellness and more!
GET YOUR TICKET NOW!
General Admission Ticket: FREE
Entry starting at 1pm
Kids under 12 are FREE
Discover and support women-owned businesses
VIP Early Access + Tote + Raffle
Early Bird $6 (until March 6)
Regular $10 (after March 6)
Entry starting at 12pm
Kids under 12 are FREE
(1) Viva La Mujer Tote Bag for environmentally friendly shopping
(1) Raffle ticket for a chance to win amazing products from one of our featured Viva La Mujer Vendors. Raffle prizes are available while supplies last.
Important Notes:
Check-in at our registration table upon arrival.
Once you are checked in at the event, you will receive your tote bag and raffle ticket for a chance to win a prize!
If our venue reaches capacity, we will be giving priority entrance to those attendees with a time slot ticket bought online.
* Pets are not allowed at this event. See FAQ section.
Sunday, 22, 12.00 -
Sunday, 22, 17.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Join us for a lively discussion about the amazing women leading the way in various fields at the Women’s History Month Panel!
NWHCC Women’s History Month Signature Event
Women in Leadership & Impact Panel
Join us in person for an inspiring event celebrating Women’s History Month! Dive into stories of powerful women leaders making a real impact. Presented in partnership with Arlington Heights Memorial Library
Connect, learn, and be motivated by trailblazers shaping the future. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate and empower women in leadership roles!
Thursday, 12, 18.00 -
Thursday, 12, 20.00
Arlington Heights,
IL
_$25
A fun trivia night bringing the community together to support migrant families
Trivia, community, and impact—all in one night supporting migrant families. Free to attend, $10 donation to play per person (solo or teams). Bring new or gently used clothing to get a raffle ticket, with extra tickets available by donation. Register on Eventbrite and come make a difference!
Thursday, 05, 19.00 -
Thursday, 05, 21.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
The Chicago-Midwest region's Premier Latin Music & Dance Event of the year returns for an extraordinary weekend beginning Thursday 2/12/26 through Sunday 2/15/26!
Enjoy:
3 days of Dance and Music Workshops,
5 enthralling Dance Showcases,
4 Live Music Concerts and
Social dancing to the beats of the industry's top Latin Music Artists and the Official CISC DJs!
This cultural immersion program is a treat for all ages!
TAKE A DANCE WORKSHOP! Choose from workshops at all levels, beginner, intermediate and advanced. Learn from a dazzling array of world renown international, regional and local professional dance instructors. Choose classes to sharpen your skills or try something completely new!
SEE A DANCE SHOWCASE! The Evening Showcase and Concert Series ticket begins with a spectacular 8:00 PM Dance Showcase featuring professional global and regional artists delivering Latin dance infused choreography. Enjoy a celebration of the timeless and ageless Latin, Afro-Latin and Afro-Caribbean dance culture. Watch the rising stars in our Emerging Artist Showcases presented in the matinee production on Saturday and Sunday at 4:00PM.
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC CONCERTS! Our Live Music Concert Series in the Grand Ballroom each night features Latin Music giants and highly acclaimed regional musicians performing for all ages.
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY! Check out the special Opening Night festivities including our annual Rueda Summit! Friday through Sunday enjoy social dancing in three Ballrooms! The energy is unbelievable and the music will have you on your feet all night long!
This is your chance to EXPERIENCE an unforgettable CISC weekend where Latin Music's top artists, instructors and attendees connect and share the powerful energy of the CISC! Take classes, enjoy a show, attend a concert and dance till your heart's content all weekend long in the beautifully appointed elegant ballrooms of the Westin O'Hare.
Thursday, 12, 19.00 -
Monday, 16, 03.00
Rosemont,
IL
_$25
Full service law firm in the Back of the Yards neighborhood of Chicago. Our staff is bilingual and we pride ourselves in our ability to effectively communicate with our clients. Obtaining great results is our top priority.
U.S. immigration and citizenship law. Whether you are an individual pursuing the American dream, a family seeking to be reunited, or a business needing the services of foreign talent, we are capable of providing answers to your toughest immigration questions.
Beata Leja is a partner at the law firm of Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C. Beata’s practice includes both employment-based and family-based immigration law. She is an active member of the Chicago Chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), where she currently serves as the Co-chair of the Fall Conference Planning Committee, co-chair of the LGBT Committee, and as a member of the Customs & Border Protection (CBP) Liaison Committee. She has previously served on the Social Security Administration (SSA) Liaison Committee and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) & Department of Labor (DOL) Liaison Committee, as well as other committees. She is also a member of the Federal Bar Association, the Women’s Bar Association, and the Advocates Society for Polish lawyers. In 2015, 2016, and 2017, she was named an Emerging Lawyer in Immigration Law by Leading Lawyers, a distinction given to only 2% of lawyers licensed to practice law in Illinois. She has also been recognized as a Rising Star in Immigration by Super Lawyers Magazine in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 and awarded the Pro Bono Guardian award by AILA for her pro bono services to the immigrant community. Beata has conducted seminars about immigration law for students, employers, employees and attorneys. She is admitted to practice law in the State of Illinois and in the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
Beata is a 2007 graduate of Loyola University Chicago School of Law, where she was a member of the Niagara International Moot Court Team (3rd Best Oralist). Prior to law school, she was a teacher in the Chicago Public Schools as a corps member of the national service corps Teach for America. She has a Master of Education from National–Louis University and two Bachelor’s degrees in Spanish and International Relations from the University of Southern California. She is fluent in Polish and conversant in Spanish.
I provide competent and affordable legal representation in immigration law for individuals and families. I have been practicing law since 2010 I and am admitted to practice in the State of Illinois and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
I attended Robert Morris University where I graduated magna cum laude. I went on to attend Chicago-Kent College of Law at the Illinois Institute of Technology where I obtained my Juris Doctor Degree before also obtaining my MPA in Public Administration at their Stuart School of Business.
At DePaul University in Chicago, IL, the Latino Law Student Association represents a vibrant community of law students united by their cultural identity and shared commitment to legal excellence. This student-led organization creates an inclusive space where Latino law students can build meaningful relationships, support one another through their legal education, and collectively work toward professional success.
The association embodies DePaul University's values of community engagement and social responsibility. By bringing together students from similar backgrounds, the organization fosters a sense of belonging within the law school community while celebrating the rich cultural perspectives that Latino students bring to legal education and practice. Members benefit from peer mentorship, shared experiences, and collaborative learning opportunities that enhance their educational journey.
Serving the Chicago, IL area, the DePaul Latino Law Student Association connects students not only with each other but also with the broader legal community and cultural organizations throughout the city. The organization recognizes the importance of maintaining strong ties to Latino communities while preparing members for meaningful careers in law that can address community needs and advocate for social justice.
Through its active participation in campus life and engagement initiatives, the association demonstrates that student organizations are essential to creating welcoming, supportive educational environments. The DePaul Latino Law Student Association stands as a testament to the power of community, cultural pride, and collective advocacy within legal education, empowering students to become leaders who bridge the gap between law school and the communities they serve.
The Hispanic Latinx Law Student Association at Chicago-Kent College of Law represents a dedicated community of students united by shared cultural heritage, professional aspirations, and commitment to advancing equity in the legal profession. Located in Chicago, Illinois, this student-led organization creates meaningful connections among Hispanic and Latinx law students while building bridges to the broader legal community. Members benefit from a supportive network that celebrates cultural identity while navigating the challenges and opportunities of legal education. The association champions the voices and experiences of Hispanic and Latinx students within Illinois Institute of Technology's Chicago-Kent College of Law, ensuring that diverse perspectives are represented in campus discourse and decision-making. Beyond academic pursuits, the organization fosters lasting friendships and professional relationships that extend well beyond law school. As Chicago-Kent's student organizations continue to evolve and strengthen their digital presence through the upcoming 312 Community Hubs platform launching in Fall 2025, the Hispanic Latinx Law Student Association remains committed to its mission of community building and mutual support. For current and prospective students interested in connecting with fellow Hispanic and Latinx law students and engaging in meaningful community initiatives, this organization offers a welcoming and empowering space within the Chicago legal education landscape.
The Latine Law Students Association (LLSA) represents a vital community within Loyola University Chicago School of Law, serving as the central hub for Latinx students pursuing legal careers in Chicago, Illinois. This student-led organization exists to create an academic and social support network where members can thrive, connect, and grow together throughout their law school journey. LLSA automatically includes all Latinx students at the law school while extending open membership to any student in good standing who wishes to participate.
At its core, LLSA is committed to amplifying the voices and experiences of Latinx communities within legal education and practice. The organization brings speakers who discuss pressing legal issues affecting Latinx populations domestically and internationally, ensuring members remain informed about critical developments in their communities. By keeping members updated on scholarships, community events, and employment pathways, LLSA empowers students to navigate their legal careers with purpose and cultural awareness.
Beyond academic support, LLSA serves as a bridge between law students and the broader Latinx community. Members participate in meaningful service initiatives and community engagement activities that extend their impact beyond the classroom. The organization deliberately fosters an inclusive culture where both Latinx and non-Latinx students build relationships and understanding. Led by dedicated student leaders and supported by faculty advisor Professor Sarah Diaz, LLSA demonstrates that law school success is strengthened through community, mentorship, and shared commitment to serving underrepresented populations. LLSA events create spaces where friendships form, professional networks develop, and collective commitment to justice takes root.