Representation is the description or portrayal of someone or something in a particular way. It is an incredibly important resource in mass media, and one that is not being used to its full potential. Representation is the reason people feel like their story is being told, whether it be a Caucasian, male football star in a cheesy Disney movie, an African-American woman with a prestigious, bad-ass career like on ABC Prime TV, or a tri-generational family household with three strong Latina women living every day life.
Focusing on the tri-generational Latina household, CW’s Jane the Virgin is progressing this story, and allowing multiple demographics to feel represented in the media. While Gina Rodriguez is constantly discussed for her generous acts and strong hold on body positivity, her character, Jane Gloriana Villanueva, is often unspoken about, and just as important. Here are some ways Jane Gloriana Villanueva helps tell multiple stories, all at once.
Jane is a woman, as well as a minority. Even though these are obvious traits, it’s important to note that this character’s gender, as well as her ethnicity, is an incredibly important decision. This could have very easily been Rob the Virgin, or Sally the Virgin, had it not been based on a Venezuelan Telenovela. Jane’s character assists in telling the story of the 14.4 million Latina women currently living in the United States, according to the US Census, and so many more.
Jane’s career paths encourage future writers and teachers. When going through college, being around Jane’s age (24), it can be difficult to believe in yourself, as well as your major. In most television shows we see nowadays, people work in successful advertising agencies, with political science, and with big businesses. Seeing Jane pursue an artistic career such as writing motivates other artists, and shows they can live a healthy life while also pursuing their dream. This is a necessary lesson during this time, when everybody around us is struggling to find their place. Jane as a teacher also motivates our educators, demonstrating that even through trials and tribulations, teaching still holds an ultimate gift. Based on the National Center for Education Statistics, a little over 3.6 million teachers can see themselves on television if they were to watch Jane the Virgin.
Jane lives with her mother, as well as her grandmother. Seeing Jane with her family, cohabiting together, reminded me of my grandmother, when she would move in over the summer to take care of me. I see my own memories when I look at the Villanueva’s daily interactions, through breakfast, their front porch, and even their arguments. As three generation households begin to rise in the United States, Jane will assist in assuring these people that a three generation household is an amazing thing.
Ultimately, Jane Gloriana Villanueva is a universal story teller because she makes mistakes. While her life is certainly very dramatic, it is nowhere near perfect, or glamorous. She fantasizes about what her life could be like, vividly remembers her Catholic school upbringing, and has to make bridal, career, and parental decisions. Jane is empowering, because Jane is us.
What are some ways Jane is like you?