Fred Sandoval and Little Joe in discussion (Photo: Javier Aaron Paz)
A transformative event took place in El Paso, Texas, where Tejano music legend Little Joe Hernandez was interviewed by Fred Sandoval, a national Latino behavioral health advocate. The event was a fascinating highlight of an afternoon filled with Indigenous grounding, reconnecting with friends, and a mariachi serenade.
The event, held on June 12, began with the unveiling of the Field of Stars commemorative flags, celebrating local leaders Guillermo ‘Memo’ Acosta, Dr. Luis Guerra de la Fuente, Susana Reza, and Little Joe. A resolution was presented by County Commissioner Iliana Holguin, declaring June 12th as Little Joe Hernandez and Fred Sandoval Day in El Paso County.
The audience was treated to a rousing rendition of “El Rey” by the magnificent Mariachi Los Arrieros, followed by a group sing-along of the classic “Las Nubes.” The plática, or conversation, began in earnest as Little Joe and Fred Sandoval took their seats on the stage. Sandoval framed the discussion as “Musica es Medicina,” guiding the audience’s understanding of Little Joe’s influence in their lives and their own relationship to how music is a healing emotional experience.
Little Joe’s candor made a deep impression on the audience. He shared his advice that crying, contrary to what men were often told as children, is a healthy response that greatly alleviates stress from the body. Sandoval contributed further, telling the audience that we can all choose the duration of how long we’ll hold onto our grief before deciding to work with it or not: “It can be weeks, months or even years.”
Little Joe also touched on living with diabetes and taking responsibility to make the changes that maintained his health. Audience members were treated to “behind the song” moments where Little Joe shared what was happening in his life when some of his favorite songs (“Prieta Linda,” “El Corrido de La Cotorra,” and “Las Nubes”) were being written or recorded.
Little Joe Hernandez at the “Charlando con mi Gente” event in El Paso (Photo: Elizabeth Robles)
Elizabeth Robles, an El Paso psychotherapist, grief expert, and one of the event organizers, said, “Every single one of us has a behavioral health story. To hear Little Joe—unscripted and with complete candor–tackle different areas that really impact the well-being of Latino familias was nothing short of amazing. His openness makes him a powerful messenger.”
Fred Sandoval, Executive Director of the National Latino Behavioral Health Association (NLBHA), added, “When a public figure like Little Joe raises awareness about Latino mental health, it helps break cultural stigmas and promotes understanding within the community. His influence and those of other high-profile individuals can drive significant change, encouraging more Latinos to seek help and access vital mental health resources.”
Hon. Lily Limón, Little Joe, and County Commissioner Iliana Holguin holding the resolution with Little’s Joe
commemorative Field of Stars flag in the background (Photo: Javier Aaron Paz)
Little Joe’s concern for the community at large and his respect for the topics of behavioral health was obvious throughout his talk. He kept the audience mesmerized by effortlessly blending his descriptions of the technical aspects of musical composition to the power of connecting “soul to soul.” When asked to share an important lesson from his life and his career, Little Joe instantly responded, “Music is magic. Music heals us.”
About Little Joe Hernandez
Little Joe Hernandez, a revered figure in Tejano music, has captivated audiences for decades with his dynamic performances and cultural contributions. His legacy continues to inspire and uplift the Latino community.
About Fred Sandoval
Fred Sandoval is a distinguished advocate for Latino behavioral health, known for his tireless efforts to advance mental health awareness and support within the community. He is the Executive Director of the National Latino Behavioral Health Association.
What Other Attendees Said
Attendees expressed their admiration for Little Joe and his music, with comments such as “Little Joe’s music spoke to us like no other!” and “It amazed me how he opened up and shared about his life. He’s really a beautiful person.” They appreciated his honesty, respectfulness, and kindness, values he said were instilled in him by his father.
About the Field of Stars
The Field of Stars / Campo de Estrellas is a collection of commemorative flags honoring champions of community leadership. The initiative began in El Paso, Texas, in 2022 and now numbers over 62 honorees from El Paso and other cities. A powerful educational resource, students scan the QR code on each flag to read the respective biographies which are online at thefieldofstars.com. To date, students have scanned these codes over 5,400 times to learn stories, the majority of which are available only at the Field of Stars website.
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