Latina women have been underlooked and underappreciated when it comes to their impact on society and culture. Whether it’s in music, entertainment, or historical accomplishments, there have been so many women in their community that deserve their flowers and more. Here are just a few women who personally inspire me.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: As a woman in politics, AOC is an inspiration to me. Growing up in policy debate, her name was a frequent flyer since the time I was a debater, intersected from the beginning of her Congressional career. I found how fearless, bold and unapologetic she was to defend people in need and fight for what she thinks is right to be truly inspirational. Despite being frowned upon and targeted by the President during two administrations, she never backed down and always held her ground. Seeing a young and fearless woman like her at such a high level in a field I am pursuing truly has inspired me so much over the years.Â
Rita Moreno: Although she is before my time (for the most part), her accomplishments are some to not ignore. Her impact and career has opened doors for so many women, not just in the Hispanic and Latina communities, but in entertainment in general. The EGOT prestige, an individual who has won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony, is a high feat for entertainers and very difficult to accomplish. Yet, Rita became the first Latina and first Hispanic American to achieve this accomplishment. Her stardom and talents have transcended throughout various generations and I am grateful to have seen her on my television amongst many other people in this world and entertainment would not be the same without her.Â
Sofia Vergara: Although you may not immediately think of her, I think her story is very telling and very inspiring to see how far she has come. When I think of Sofia, I think of “Loud and Proud”, but in the most beautiful ways. She has never been afraid or shy about her identity and what makes her the woman she is, and has used those traits and her culture as her strength that has gotten her to where she is. Despite being a young single immigrant mother who defeated cancer at such a young age, she persevered and built a multi-million-dollar successful career for herself. I think it is really inspirational to see someone so successful yet so authentic, and shows young women to not only be proud of where they’re from but of who they are no matter what. Her story and success is truly something I look up to and adore and she just embodies the strength women have.
These are just 3 inspirational women to me, but there are so many. No matter what tribulations come upon or what is going on in the world, I have found that women from all over will always find a way to succeed and get through and it’s women like these ladies that continue to make me proud of being the woman I am.