The resolution honors the life and contributions of Olivia Cadaval, a prominent figure in the Latino community of Washington, D.C. Born in Mexico City, Cadaval immigrated to the United States in 1961 and settled in D.C. in 1968. She was a dedicated advocate for the Latino community, documenting its history and creating spaces for artistic expression. As the Director of El Centro de Arte, she played a significant role in promoting Latin-American arts for two decades. Cadaval also earned a Ph.D. in American Studies and Folklife from George Washington University and served as a cultural liaison for the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, where she curated numerous programs.
In addition to her professional achievements, Cadaval was a mentor to many young artists and curators, particularly from underrepresented communities. Even in retirement, she continued her community engagement by curating exhibitions, such as La Esquina, which documented the Latino community of Mount Pleasant. The resolution formally recognizes and celebrates her legacy, ensuring that her contributions to the cultural landscape of D.C. are remembered and honored.