Community celebrates Puerto Rican heritage and honors community pioneers

MORRISANIA, The Bronx (PIX11) — In a vibrant tribute to Puerto Rican Heritage Month, the Bronx community came together Thursday for a celebration honoring local pioneers whose impact is shaping the city.

It was a lively celebration at Bronx Music Hall as dozens of people gathered for an unforgettable evening where music, dance, and community pride filled the air. The event was organized by Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson.

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"Tonight's celebration of Puerto Rican heritage is a recognition of our heroes and sheroes, and so many different facets — from education, small businesses, so many of our leaders, our clergy — that really represent the fabric of who we are," Gibson said. "That is a reflection of our diversity."

The celebration recognized leaders who have contributed to what organizers call the Bronx's resurgence as a destination for heritage, cuisine, and the arts.

Among the honorees was Celebrity Chef Billy Jack Perez. He was celebrated for his impactful work with incarcerated youth on Rikers Island and for helping them learn skills they can use in the real world.

"When I was a correction officer, cooking instructor on Rikers Island I was cooking for the young adult, adolescents," said Perez. "I was teaching them how to cook and that's the biggest accomplishment that I've ever done in my life."

His efforts offered hope and a path forward for youth looking to rebuild their lives after incarceration.

"We'd give them certifications and they would go back into the community and start off at a culinary program," he said. "Whatever they wanted to do.

Another esteemed honoree was Bronxite Madeline Marquez — one of the first female executives at Ponce Bank and a trailblazer named one of Crain's New York Business's Most Notable Women on Wall Street. She hopes her story will inspire young women to reach for their dreams.

"They need to see people like us," said Marquez. "They need to understand that they too can become an executive of a bank, a president of a company, run their own business. So, I am glad that I'm a model and example."Live musical entertainment brought the celebration to life as traditional Bomba music reverberated through the hall. Gibson hopes attendees leave with a deeper appreciation of Puerto Rican culture and the resilience of its people.