5 Latino Artists Worth Noting
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15th and ends on October 15th. To commence Hispanic Heritage Month, I have come up with a list of Hispanic icons that are definitely worth the attention.
Gina Rodriguez
Jane the Virgin star, Gina Rodriguez, has been breaking Spanish Stereotypes since day 1. Gina was inspired to pursue her dream when she saw Puerto Rican actress and singer, Rita Moreno. Watching only a small amount of Latinos on television only motivated her to become an actress. Gina has turned down roles, such as Devious Maids, because they “portray Latinos in a negative light.” This is only the beginning of Gina’s career and we can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us!
America Ferrera
America Ferrera is an actress and is known for many roles in television and film, especially the hit show Ugly Betty. But America does way more than just acting. She was chosen to be in Time Magazine’s “Most Influential People.” One of the most prominent topics that America advocates for is immigration reform. She served as an ambassador for “Save the Children” and has had her say in politics. America spoke at the 2016 DNC and wrote a well-written letter to Donald Trump regarding his “ignorant and racist” views on Latino immigrants. You go America!
Eugenio Derbez
Whenever you get the chance, PLEASE sit down and watch one of Eugino Derbez’s films. You’ll be entertained, you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll even change your perspective on certain topics. He is an actor, producer, writer, and director. Instructions Not Included, a film the Eugenio directed, produced, AND starred in, became one of the most popular Spanish movies worldwide. His creative mind has definitely influenced Hollywood and continues to entertain us. Keep on inspiring us, Eugenio!
Junot Diaz
“I’m like everybody else: weak, full of mistakes, but basically good.”
These beautiful words come from Junot Diaz’s book, This is How You Lose Her. Reading one of Junot Diaz’s books takes you on an amazing journey through the Dominican Republic and gives you a glimpse of life as a Dominican. Not only is Junot Diaz an author, he is also an immigration activist. Junot speaks and writes about his life as an immigrant. He is currently a creative writing professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a fiction editor for the Boston Review. Keep on writing, Junot!
Eva Longoria
Eva Longoria is an actress and businesswomen. She has been in numerous movies and television shows and you definitely can’t forget her hilarious role in Desperate Housewives. Even though Gabrielle (in Desperate Housewives) is a bit spoiled, Eva Longoria is the complete opposite. She started The Eva Longoria Foundation which helps empower Latinas through education and entrepreneurship. Eva is also a long term feminist and speaks out about sexism in Hollywood. She even created an emoji app, Evamojis. They are “strong emojis for strong women!”