Selena

She broke down the walls of the music industry by performing, singing as well as a designer. She was at once traditional and modern a Mexican-American star who bound together both genres with a unique approach. She also provided amazing Tejano music to a mainstream audience. Similar to how there are many who mourn a superstar who died too early, her passing was premature and destroyed a growing career. Through the years, her the fans became inspired to work even harder to ensure that Selena's achievements would not be forgotten. Her tragic death in a shooting caused a reaction in the Latino Community, similar to reactions following the deaths of Elvis Presley or John Lennon. A hugely popular performer throughout Latino communities throughout North America her music crossed lines of cultural difference to affect the lives of children and old alike. Selena may have been hailed by certain people as an Latina Madonna, however she is still a great character model. Selena's values of family life offstage and involvement with AIDS awareness efforts are exemplary.