March is Women’s History Month to commemorate the amazing achievements of women today and throughout history. During this month, we recognize the advancements women have made in science, in entertainment, in social movements, and in politics. I would like to recognize these Latinx women for breaking barriers and demonstrating leadership and resilience.
1. Ellen Ochoa
Ellen Ochoa was the first Latinx woman in space. Born in Los Angeles, Ellen Ochoa is a Mexican-American astronaut who would also become the first Latina Director of the Johnson Space Center. To do this, Ellen Ochoa earned her doctorate at Stanford and then went to work for NASA. She has received plenty of recognition from NASA and the public. Ellen Ochoa is an inspiration for all Latinx people to pursue STEM careers, and go to space.
2. Rita Moreno
You might have heard of Rita Moreno as the first Latina to ever win an Academy Award, or as the first Latinx person to earn a PEGOT. I was first introduced to Rita Moreno when watching Jane the Virgin when she guest-starred on an episode, and I immediately googled her because she was a hilarious and fabulous Glam-ma. During my google search, I found that Rita Moreno was born in Puerto Rico. Her breakout role in Hollywood was with West Side Story, but she is also a singer and producer. She has also produced various shows and films. She is a legend and trailblazer who continues to act in shows like One Day at a Time and in the upcoming remake of West Side Story, which she executive produced.
3. Daniela Vega
Daniela Vega is a Chilean singer and actress who is most famous for her role in the Academy-Award winning film A Fantastic Woman. Through this film, I became aware of Daniela Vega. She is a trans woman who made history at the 2018 Academy Awards in becoming the first trans-actress to present at the Oscars. Daniela Vega has had an international impact on the LGBT+ community and continues to break barriers for Latinx trans people.
4. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
I remember the first time I saw AOC, it was on a video on Twitter. She had just found out she won the New York Primary over Joe Crowley. I remember crying after the video because she was so surprised and eloquent, and she made me feel like I could do anything. She is a Boriqua from the Bronx who went from bartender to House Representative in 2018. As a Representative, she has continually fought for social, environmental, and political justice and introduced progressive reforms like the Green New Deal. AOC is a hardworking Latina who tells it as it is and wants equality for all Americans.