Salma Hayek

“America’s diversity is a source of strength,” said Salma Hayek after accepting the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute’s 2013 Medallion of Excellence. “It is the strength of our spirit that transcends our cultural differences.… Our vast, vibrant culture will only enhance and enrich this great nation.” Hayek is perhaps best known for her 2002 film Frida, which she both produced and starred in (as the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo), earning her an Oscar nomination for best actress. She has appeared and starred in numerous films since, including the recent comedy-drama Beatriz at Dinner (2017). In her directorial debut, Hayek won a Daytime Emmy for the 2003 TV movie The Maldonado Miracle and served as an executive producer for the hit TV series Ugly Betty. Hayek helps to raise awareness about violence against women, discrimination against immigrants, and the struggles of disadvantaged children through the Salma Hayek Foundation, which she founded in 2006. In April 2018 Hayek received UNICEF’s Danny Kaye Humanitarian Award for spearheading its campaign to end maternal and neonatal tetanus as well as for her support of other global initiatives. She is also a leading voice in the #MeToo and Times Up movements. Updated 2018