SACRAMENTO, CA — Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) announced Monday that Montecito Heights resident Bricia Lopez was named the 2019 Woman of the Year of the 51st Assembly District. The Woman of the Year honor celebrates achievements of trailblazing women throughout the state during Women’s History Month.
“I am thrilled to recognize my good friend, Bricia Lopez for her pioneering and entrepreneurial efforts,” Assembly Carrillo said. “A successful restaurateur, Bricia has given back to the community and inspired other women to be leaders. She has innovatively honored her Oaxacan culture, all the while using her platform to highlight important issues such as immigration and economic equity.”
Born and raised in Mitla, Oaxaca, Bricia and her family are owners and operators of La Guelaguetza, a James Beard awarded Oaxacan restaurant founded by her father. Bricia is an influential figure in the gastronomic culture of Los Angeles and is an advocate of small businesses and women entrepreneurs. She and her sister Paulina are the co-hosts of Super Mamás, a podcast, event series and online community that connects and empowers women through their journey of motherhood.
“It’s an honor to receive this award,” Lopez said. “I can only imagine the many qualified women who were considered. Through my work with our family restaurant, Guelaguetza and the podcast that I host alongside my sister, I meet incredible women that inspire me daily. I dedicate this honor to them.”
Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo was elected to the 51st Assembly District in December of 2017. She is a member of the Rules, Appropriations, Public Safety, Health and Water Parks & Wildlife Committees. Carrillo represents the people of East Los Angeles, Northeast Los Angeles, and the neighborhoods of El Sereno, Echo Park, Lincoln Heights, Chinatown and parts of Silver Lake.