Hispanic Heritage Foundation announces NPR’s Felix Contreras to receive the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Award for Journalism

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) has announced that NPR’s Felix Contreras, a trailblazing journalist and an international ambassador for Latin music and art, will receive the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Award for Journalism at the 38th Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards (HHAs). The celebration will take place on September 4, 2025, at the historic Warner Theater in Washington, D.C.

“As a journalist, Félix has been an important voice in telling Latino stories through music,” said Antonio Tijerino, President and CEO, Hispanic Heritage Awards.  “Through his remarkable journey, he hasn’t just documented our stories but has authentically lived through the rhythms, beats and messages conveyed in the music. His passion for music and our community is palpable and musicians, not just his audience, feels it through the interviews, writings and performances.  He’s a cultural ambassador who understands his responsibility to share and represent our community through music which fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of who we are as Latinos.”

Felix Contreras has dedicated 48 years to reporting and producing TV news, radio, online and streaming journalism, while also developing a deep passion for multiple styles of music and his own capabilities as an accomplished percussionist.

After initially beginning and building his career through television work in the Fresno and Sacramento markets of his native Northern California, followed by ladder climbing stops in additional markets, Felix landed an opportunity to join National Public Radio in 2001 and relocated to the Washington D.C./Silver Springs, MD area.

Contreras began work as a Producer/Reporter on the NPR News Arts Desk, and in 2010 became the co-creator and co-host of  the groundbreaking Alt.Latino radio show and podcast- born out of the absence of coverage for Latin alternative music. Beginning with the very first episode featuring Juanes, and still growing stronger into in its 15th year, the show continues to spotlight artists who challenge the mainstream pop narrative, giving voice to unique talent from Latin America and beyond.

Beyond Alt.Latino, Contreras appears regularly on NPR’s award-winning news magazines, All Things Considered and Morning Edition, and programs music from the Latin diaspora for the acclaimed Tiny Desk concerts. His contributions to the landmark series has included career introduction moments such as Cimafunk., critical favorites such as Natalia LaFourcade, and viral superstar moments such as the recent visit of Bad Bunny.

Through this work, Contreras has become one of the most knowledgeable international ambassadors for Latino heritage and art, “Tio Felix” travels extensively in search of new talent and new music and captures important legacy performers in jazz and Latin genres. Various national and international publications frequently quote his expertise on the contemporary influences of Latin culture, music, and media, while his insights have made him a sought-after speaker and presenter at prestigious institutions, including the Smithsonian Institute, South by Southwest Music Festival, AmericanaFest, The Latin Alternative Music Conference and the Grammy Foundation.

“I’m a little taken aback to be honored with such a prestigious recognition,” said Felix Contreras. “I’ve sat in the audience at this event so many times cheering on amazing pioneers and movers and shakers. I’m humbled that The Hispanic Heritage Foundation, and Antonio Tijerino, consider my work worthy of recognition. De corazón, gracias!,” said Felix Contreras.

The HHAs were established by The White House in 1988 to commemorate the creation of Hispanic Heritage Month in America and are recognized as “America’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration” and supported by 40 national, Latino-serving institutions. The HHAs recognize Latino accomplishment, vision, and cultural pride. Watch highlights from last year’s awards HERE & find all past HHA Honorees HERE.

About the Hispanic Heritage Foundation

The Hispanic Heritage Awards serve as a launch of HHF’s year-round mission focused on education, workforce, societal impact, and leadership.  Visit www.HispanicHeritage.org. Follow HHF on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.  Listen to the HHF podcast Fritanga on your favorite streaming service and HHF YouTube channel.

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For more information on the 38^th Hispanic Heritage Awards, please contact John Reilly, [email protected] or Nicolás Peña, [email protected]

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jessica Herrera, [email protected]