Dean Huertas Leads a Powerful Night of Culture & Connection in Holyoke
On Saturday, January 24, 2026, Explore Holyoke and Nueva Esperanza, Inc. welcomed nationally recognized storyteller and influencer Dean Huertas to Holyoke for an unforgettable stop on his Bridge the Gap Tour.
Held at Waterfront Event Venue, the evening brought together community members, leaders, artists, and families for a powerful celebration of Puerto Rican identity, diaspora, and cultural pride.
The program featured a dynamic panel discussion with María Salgado-Cartagena, Juan Anderson-Burgos, and Brendaliz Cepeda, adding local voice, history, and lived experience to an evening centered on dialogue, empowerment, and community connection.
Relive the Energy, Dialogue, and Puerto Rican Pride
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Bridging Diaspora. Celebrating Identity. Strengthening Community.
The evening featured meaningful conversations around heritage, activism, and community building. Guests connected with local vendors, enjoyed food and networking opportunities, and experienced live music, raffles, and an uplifting atmosphere rooted in unity and pride.
Presented in partnership with Nueva Esperanza, Inc., the event reflected Holyoke’s deep Puerto Rican roots and its ongoing commitment to connection, storytelling, and strengthening the bond between the island and the diaspora.
