TAMPA, FL – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor celebrated four Tampa Bay immigrants who have made significant contributions to their local community and embodied the American Dream during Castor’s annual ‘American Dream Awards.’

“The beauty of this country revolves around the diversity among us. These giants in our community are achieving their own version of the American Dream as athletes and legal professionals, ensuring the wheels of justice turn for everyone, educators and entrepreneurs. In this community, our differences make this a great place to work, raise a family and pursue our dreams,” said Rep. Castor. “When people start to condemn or insult immigrants, I take it personally. That’s why this event is so important to me so that we can uplift the beautiful stories of our neighbors across the Tampa Bay area. I am proud to honor Carlos and Karelis Carrasco, Jamila Little, Carol Mayo and Daniel Hurtado de Mendoza for their hard work, perseverance and love for our country.”

“It is a great honor as the son of Carlos and Karelis to see their work recognized. Usually, as the son of a professional baseball player, people recognize my dad only for baseball, but it is great to see his work helping communities around the globe and fellow immigrants be celebrated. It fills my heart with joy that other people around the world can feel the love he has given me,” said Lucas Gonzalez Carrasco.

“When I found out about this award, I had tears in my eyes because usually this work is not seen. It truly takes a village, and it is a privilege to contribute to our communities and serve those who are now walking where I walked,” said Jamila Little.

“When I enrolled in eighth grade in the United States, I was placed in lower-level classes because the school believed I did not know English. As a teacher, I work every day to ensure my students, whether they speak English or not, are not questioned on their intellectual ability. We hear a lot of negativity around immigrants, but it takes all of us to focus on the goodness and share that,” said Carol Mayo.

“A lot of people ask me why I do the things I do; the only answer I have is that through everything I have been through in my life, I have seen many people lose hope, but every day, I try to help people wake up with hope and knowing tomorrow will be better. It is our responsibility as community members to lend a hand and help our neighbors feel hope again,” said Daniel Hurtado de Mendoza.

Photos of the event can be found here.

Read the story of each honoree here.