Roberto’s life was dedicated to building the “Beloved Community”* through multi-racial unity, and he deeply believed that poverty, racism and social inequity could only be eradicated if people of all races and backgrounds came together to do so.

It is in honor of Roberto and his legacy that the Roberto Felipe Maestas Legacy Award will recognize two individuals who have exemplified building the Beloved Community through multi-racial unity, and working to eliminate poverty, racism and social inequity.

El Centro de la Raza will celebrate them and their contributions by making a $1,500 gift in their name to an organization of their choice. These awards made possible by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. 

Four high school students are awarded with the Roberto Felipe Maestas Legacy Scholarships as well. Each recipient receives a scholarship of $1,000 to be applied towards post-secondary education in honor of Roberto’s legacy. These scholarships are made possible by donations to the Roberto Maestas Scholarship Fund.  

*Martin Luther King, Jr.