Selena

She broke down barriers within the music industry in her roles as a performer, singer and designer. She was at once modern and traditional. She was an Mexican American who brought two worlds in a distinct manner. Like many times when an incredibly bright and friendly star is lost way too soon, her untimely demise caused her to lose the popularity she had been gaining. Many mourned all of the potential that was not fully realized. In the following years, people were encouraged to push themselves harder to make sure that Selena's achievements would not be forgotten. Her death in a shooting triggered an emotional response within the Latino society that could be similar to Elvis Presley, and John Lennon. Selena was a wildly popular singer among Latinos in North America. But her music was a hit with both the young as well as the elderly. Selena was an asexual, flamboyant performer on stage that was frequently called her as the Latina Madonna. Off-stage Selena was an outstanding role model, as she actively participated in antidrug and AIDS campaigns.