Senator Bob J. Archuleta honors the company’s cultural contributions as its signature VIP celebration draws its largest turnout in more than a decade.
NORWALK, Calif., Nov. 3, 2026 — El Clasificado marked 21 years of its Día de los Muertos tradition on November 2, welcoming clients, corporate representatives, prospective clients and community partners to its Norwalk headquarters for an evening celebrating Mexican heritage, honoring loved ones, and strengthening community connections.
The milestone celebration was made especially meaningful by a California State Senate Certificate of Recognition issued by Senator Bob J. Archuleta, honoring El Clasificado’s 21-year commitment to preserving Día de los Muertos traditions and its longstanding contributions to the Hispanic community. The gathering also recorded its highest guest check-in attendance in more than a decade.
The certificate recognized El Clasificado for honoring the lives and memories of loved ones while preserving the cultural heritage and traditions that unite families and communities. It also acknowledged the company’s more than 30 years of business leadership, advertising and community outreach.
“For 21 years, Día de los Muertos has given us a special opportunity to honor our loved ones, celebrate our heritage and bring people together,” said Martha de la Torre, founder and CEO of El Clasificado, operating as EC Hispanic Media. “I’m especially grateful for Senator Archuleta’s recognition because it reflects something we’ve always believed: preserving our culture and building meaningful business relationships go hand in hand. This celebration represents the heart of who we are and the communities we’re proud to serve.”
From Al Borde’s Creative Roots to a 21-Year Tradition
El Clasificado’s Día de los Muertos celebration traces its roots to 2005 through Al Borde, the company’s Latin alternative entertainment magazine and media brand, which connected young Latinos in Los Angeles through music, art, and cultural events.
What began as a creative celebration of Mexican heritage has evolved into one of EC Hispanic Media‘s signature public relations events, bringing together business leaders, clients and community partners in an intimate setting that combines remembrance, cultural pride and relationship-building.
The tradition has adapted over the years, including a virtual celebration in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the company’s commitment to maintaining cultural connections even when in-person gatherings weren’t possible.
One of the celebration’s most beloved traditions began with Rick Perez, a young El Clasificado graphic designer who enjoyed creating his own Día de los Muertos T-shirts. His passion for art and Mexican culture inspired the company to begin sharing original commemorative designs with clients and community partners.
More than two decades later, Perez is now Creative Design Manager at EC Hispanic Media, and the annual T-shirt remains a cherished part of the celebration, reflecting the creativity and cultural pride that has shaped the company over the years.
This year’s design features a hummingbird, guitar, sugar skull, marigolds, candles and a flaming heart. The artwork combines traditional symbols of remembrance with expressions of music, love, and the enduring bonds between generations.
An Evening of Remembrance, Recognition and Community Connections
The November 2 celebration brought together representatives from major companies, longtime clients, prospective business partners and community leaders for an evening of traditional Mexican food, drinks, live music and conversation.
“Today, we come together to honor our loved ones, celebrate our heritage, and keep alive the traditions that connect generations,” said Giancarlo Bresani, digital products sales manager at El Clasificado, during his welcome remarks.
Live music by Duque’s Rock added to the festive atmosphere as guests reconnected with longtime acquaintances and developed new relationships.
During the evening, de la Torre reflected on the celebration’s history, acknowledged the California State Senate recognition, and expressed gratitude to the employees, clients, and community partners who have supported El Clasificado over the years.
The event also showcased the creativity, marketing expertise, and cultural understanding of EC Hispanic Media’s team. Collaboration across departments transformed the company’s headquarters into a festive, welcoming environment that reflected its mission of connecting businesses and communities.
As guests departed, each received the 2026 commemorative Día de los Muertos T-shirt, continuing a tradition that has become a cherished symbol of the annual celebration.
After 21 years, El Clasificado’s Día de los Muertos gathering remains more than a cultural celebration. It reflects the company’s enduring commitment to honoring Hispanic heritage, fostering meaningful business relationships and bringing communities together.
About El Clasificado / EC Hispanic Media
Founded in 1988, El Clasificado, dba EC Hispanic Media, is a multimedia company connecting Latino communities with information, resources, and businesses through print, digital platforms, and live events. Its brands include El Clasificado, Quinceanera.com, Su Socio de Negocios, EmpleosLatino.com, and Mas Clientes, its digital marketing agency serving businesses seeking to reach Latino consumers.
Media Contact
Fátima Vélez
Public Relations and Community Affairs Manager
El Clasificado / EC Hispanic Media
[email protected]
Fátima Vélez
Public Relations and Community Affairs Manager
El Clasificado / EC Hispanic Media
[email protected]
