Hi John,

The NAL family knows how to throw a good party! And for the first time since 2019, we were thrilled to bring the party to Washington, DC during our 9th annual New American Hero Awards! Whether you celebrated with us in person or helped spread the word online, we're grateful for all of those who helped us celebrate the historic achievements of our movement and of our incredible honorees Congresswoman Grace Meng, Colorado State Senator Julie Gonzales, and Portland, Maine City Councilor Pious Ali. 

And while this year's awards may be over, that does't mean the party has to stop! 

This year, NAL staff created a “no-skips” playlist to share the magic of our special Hero Awards with all of you. If you're craving a dance party or need some solid beats for your BBQs and cookouts this summer then say no more—this is your playlist! 

Here’s a recap of our celebration and a bit of info on the immigrant artists who made the cut to get you ready to keep the party going:

Ana Tijoux
A veteran of the Latin hip-hop scene, Ana Tijoux is a French-Chilean artist whose work is feminist, anti-colonial, liberatory, and eminently danceable. Her latest single, Niñx, features on this playlist, and is a manifesto to the inner child in all of us.

Ali Sethi and Shae Gill
Ali Sethi and Shae Gill joined forces to produce the Pakistani Punjabi and Urdu-language single, Pasoori, meaning “difficulty” or “trouble.” Released through Coke Studio Pakistan, the song was featured in Ms. Marvel, and received 410 million views on YouTube in October 2022, becoming the most-watched Coke Studio music video of all time. Pasoori centers on themes of separation and heartbreak, self-acceptance, and letting go of one’s worries. 

Uzuhan
A son of Korean immigrants, Uzuhan’s music fuses elements of his heritage and upbringing with catchy, compelling beats. His song, “Immigrants,” is both a tribute to his parents and hardworking immigrants who have struggled and sacrificed as well as a powerful and uplifting anthem celebrating diversity, resilience, and the American Dream.

Like everything we do at NAL, this was a labor of love. We hope you give this playlist a listen and share your favorites with us on social media. And please don’t forget to donate to our work to keep the NAL party going for years to come.

In solidarity,
Michelle Munjanattu
Development Manager
New American Leaders

P.S. This very special night was possible because of you. Let us know how we can make NAHA better than ever next year!