Selena

She was a musician, performer and designer who broke through barriers in the industry. She was the first Mexican American performer who was both traditional and modern. She brought both cultures together and helped bring Tejano music into mainstream culture. She was a rising star who's tragic death threw it into turmoil. As is the norm when a brilliant, genial young performer dies too soon, many mourned the potential that she had yet to achieve. Through the years, her the fans became motivated to do their best to ensure that Selena's achievements would not be forgotten. Her tragic murder by a shooter triggered emotions in Latino communities, similar with the reaction to the deaths of Elvis Presley as well as John Lennon's. Selena was a hugely loved Latino singer across North America. Her music transcended cultural barriers and touched the hearts of both young people and older adults. Selena has been called by certain people as a Latina Madonna, but she's still a fantastic character model. Selena's off-stage family values and her participation with AIDS awareness campaigns provide a great example.