### LéaLA 2024 Concludes with Over 12,000 Attendees
The 2024 edition of LéaLA, the Los Angeles Spanish Book Fair, successfully concluded with over 12,000 visitors from Thursday, September 19, to Sunday, September 22. The event took place at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes in Los Angeles and was organized by the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA. This remarkable turnout was verified by official reports released on Monday, September 23.
“After four intense days of diverse programming, LéaLA 2024 concluded, bringing together the Hispanic community in Los Angeles. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with authors, poets, filmmakers, creators, and scholars,” stated UDG USA.
Under the theme “Building Peace Together,” LéaLA reaffirmed pride in Latin culture and the Spanish language. The fair featured over 150 editorial stands exhibiting a wide range of Spanish-language publications to the eager audience of Los Angeles.
“LéaLA contributes to creating a better world by promoting respect, tolerance, equity, and the importance of individuality through its activities,” said Gustavo Padilla Montes, President of the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA, which celebrated its 16th anniversary.
The literary program, including the Forum of Ideas, presented more than 50 voices from various countries. Prominent authors such as Élmer Mendoza, Cristina Rivera Garza, Carmen Villoro, and many others participated.
“Once again, we are proud to fulfill our mission to celebrate our Latin roots, forging a stronger bond through the Spanish language. The community’s support has allowed LéaLA to grow rapidly, reaching a broad audience eager to cherish and defend their language,” added Marisol Schulz Manaut, Director of LéaLA.
The event featured dialogues on literature, contemporary thought, current topics affecting both nations, plus activities related to cinema, gastronomy, humor, and music. The fair also included a comprehensive literary and editorial program, along with academic meetings and children’s workshops.
Attendees enjoyed various performances, such as a literary-musical evening inspired by Juan Rulfo’s “El Mariachi,” and the innovative show “Tocada y fuga” by Sergio Arau and Yareli Arizmendi, who also celebrated the 20th anniversary of their film “A Day Without a Mexican.”
Additional attractions included performances by artists Amanditita and La Marisoul, caricaturists Jis and Trino, chefs Vicente Ortiz and Juan Mondragón, and poetry readings coordinated by Gaspar Orozco and Ilana Luna.
Initiated by the University of Guadalajara, “Letras para Volar” offered continuous children’s and youth workshops. The event also hosted various experts discussing health, social media use among children, the role of cinema and music in Mexican identity, and US-Mexico relations.
Books by participating authors were available for purchase, supported by Librería Carlos Fuentes of UDG and more than 150 editorial funds.
The event was graced by several notable personalities, including Dr. Ricardo Villanueva Lomelí, Rector General of the University of Guadalajara; Ana María Guzmán from the LA Unified School District; Ambassador Carlos González Gutiérrez, Mexican Consul General in Los Angeles; and other distinguished guests.
LéaLA, organized by the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA, received support from various institutions and sponsors from both sides of the border, including the Mexican National Electoral Institute and UNAM.
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### Additional News on LéaLA
**LéaLA 2024: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage**
The 2024 edition of LéaLA successfully brought together the Hispanic community in Los Angeles, offering a platform to celebrate and preserve Hispanic heritage through literature, culture, and arts. With an impressive lineup of authors and creators, the event highlighted the richness of the Spanish language and Latin American culture.
**Highlights of LéaLA 2024**
LéaLA 2024 saw the participation of some of the most prominent names in Hispanic literature and arts. Key events included live readings, panel discussions, and workshops that captivated attendees of all ages. The festival also featured musical performances and culinary demonstrations, enriching the overall experience and engaging the senses of everyone present.
**Community Engagement and Educational Outreach**
A notable aspect of LéaLA 2024 was its focus on educational outreach. Programs like “Letras para Volar” emphasized the importance of literacy and education among Hispanic youth. The initiative successfully organized interactive workshops and brought together school groups from the LA Unified School District, inspiring thousands of students.
**Future Prospects for LéaLA**
As LéaLA continues to grow, future editions aim to expand their reach, incorporating more diverse voices and exploring new themes. The commitment to fostering a love for reading and cultural pride among the Hispanic community remains at the core of its mission.
**Conclusion**
LéaLA 2024 was a celebration of the Spanish language and Hispanic culture, bringing together a vibrant community in Los Angeles. The event’s success underscores the importance of such cultural initiatives in promoting diversity, education, and unity among Hispanic communities worldwide.
For more updates on LéaLA and other cultural events, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.