Margaret Wong to Receive Esperanza’s 2025 Humanitarian Award at Fiesta of Hope

Esperanza, Inc. is proud to announce that renowned immigration attorney and civic leader Margaret W. Wong will receive the 2025 Esperanza Humanitarian Award at our annual Fiesta of Hope, themed Tropigala, taking place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at The Hotel Cleveland. This honor recognizes Ms. Wong’s lifetime of service, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to uplifting communities in Northeast Ohio and beyond.

A trailblazer in her field and a beacon of hope for immigrant families across the nation, Ms. Wong’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and visionary leadership. From renting a single desk for $25 to founding one of the country’s premier immigration law firms with offices in nine U.S. cities, her journey epitomizes the values of perseverance and purpose that Esperanza holds dear.

Through Margaret W. Wong & Associates, LLC, Ms. Wong has helped thousands of individuals and families secure legal status, fight deportation, and become productive citizens of the United States. Her contributions go far beyond the courtroom. She is the author of The Immigrant’s Way, a mentor to emerging leaders, and a steadfast supporter of civic and educational institutions throughout Northeast Ohio.

Ms. Wong’s many accolades include the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, induction into the Ohio Women’s Hall of Fame, and recognition from organizations such as the Cleveland Foundation, Kent State University, and Case Western Reserve University School of Law. Yet beyond the awards, it is her enduring impact on people’s lives, on students, families, and future citizens, that sets her apart.

Esperanza leadership and staff had the honor of meeting with Ms. Wong and her Marketing Manager, Matheus Venancio Arêas, for a thoughtful and energizing conversation at her Cleveland office. The meeting included Margaret D. Sanchez, President & CEO; Judy Matsko, Director of Development; Elizabeth Semidei, Donor Relations & Events Manager; and Christian Cisneros, Marketing Manager. During this visit, Ms. Wong reflected on her deep ties to the community and reaffirmed her support for Esperanza’s mission. We extend our sincere thanks to both Ms. Wong and Mr. Arêas for their warmth and hospitality.

The 2025 Esperanza Humanitarian Award will be presented to Ms. Wong during Fiesta of Hope: Tropigala, a celebration of culture, community, and education. This signature event not only honors philanthropic champions who uplift our region through education, opportunity, and hope—it also highlights the achievements of Esperanza’s scholarship recipients and the generous sponsors who make their academic journeys possible. Additional honorees this year include the Cleveland Foundation, AT&T, and Cuyahoga Community College, recognized for their outstanding contributions to education and community advancement.

Learn more about this year’s celebration and purchase your tickets at esperanzainc.org/fiesta-of-hope.