Eva Longoria to receive Hispanic Heritage Award

Los Angeles: Actress Eva Longoria will receive a Hispanic Heritage Award at this year`s ceremony in Washington DC.

The actress will receive the Community Award, while actor Diego Luna and singer Lucero will also receive prizes, said The Hollywood Reporter. Longoria, best known for playing Gabrielle Solis in `Desperate Housewives` between 2004 and 2012, has also become increasingly involved in politics. She was a vocal supporter of Barack Obama during last year`s presidential election. The award comes just two months since Longoria was forced to defend her Lifetime series `Devious Maids`, after it received backlash from critics and heritage groups for its portrayal of Latino women. "The Hispanic Heritage Awards are proud to honour yet another inspiring group of Latino leaders. The Hispanic community has made significant contributions throughout history on America and the world and it`s an honour to be an organisation established by the White House to recognise that impact," said Jose Antonio Tijerino, president and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. The event takes place on September 5 at the John F Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. PTI