It’s been a while since I’ve sent a non-entertainment edition of the newsletter, and this one centers on something I keep coming back to: representation and power. The articles I’ve curated below show what it looks like when visibility becomes something lasting: on the biggest stages and screens, in arenas, at tech companies, and in cleaner air for our communities.

From Bad Bunny’s halftime show to basketball player Karl-Anthony Towns investing in youth programs in the Dominican Republic, and from Latinx founders growing new ventures to creators shaping their own platforms, these are examples of what it means to build and reinvest.

Con amor,
Elisabeth Rosario

Thanks for reading this issue. If you know someone who’d enjoy these stories, forward it to them. It helps this community grow. And if you’re a journalist with a relevant article I can amplify or there’s something you’d like to see included next time, just reply to this email. I read every note.

Here’s what caught my eye recently:

Representation & Power

• The Bulwark: Bad Bunny announced as the halftime show headliner for Super Bowl LX

  “He’s the first male Latino headliner, with the first fully Spanish halftime performance,” Julyssa Lopez told me. “That in itself feels like resistance…”

• TIME Magazine’s 2025 Latino Leaders list: 12 people making their mark on their fields, the U.S., and the world across everything from entertainment and activism to sports and space

• SB Nation: Knicks player Karl-Anthony Towns invests $3M into a new arena in his father’s Dominican hometown.

  Calling it the proudest moment of his life, Towns said he was overwhelmed by the chance to give back. Abinader praised the arena as “a beautiful design for the youth of Tamboril,” noting its role in tournaments and youth development. For Towns, it is a full-circle moment that ties together his Jersey upbringing, his Dominican heritage, and his present as a star in New York.

Entrepreneurship

• USA Today: Meet three Latinx entrepreneurs innovating in tech

• WalletHub’s list of the top cities for Hispanic entrepreneurs.

• Entrepreneur.com: Arturo Sneider Emigrated From Mexico and Used an Underrated Tactic to Build a Business Worth Over $1 Billion.

  Sneider has learned a lot over the last three decades in the real estate development business, and the first piece of advice he has for entrepreneurs hoping to find meaningful success in the industry is one he also had to take early on: don’t be afraid to engage with the naysayers.

Culture

• Axios: How Bay Area TikToker Miguel Mendoza built an unfiltered brand

• NBC: Telemundo Studios partnered with the University of Miami on a podcast incubator helping Latino students become professional content creators through podcasting

• Dominican actor and comedian Juan Bago recently launched “Cine Papis” with two friends. Every week they spotlight movies highlighting Latino and Hispanic talent (actors, writers, directors) and dive deep into the history, storyline, and cultural impact.

Climate & Environmental Justice

• The Guardian: US Latinos mobilize to monitor, and improve, local air quality: ‘We have to fix it’

• GreenLatinos: George Meléndez Wright was a wildlife biologist and the first Hispanic professional scientist in the National Park Service

  Only 21 when he was hired by Yosemite National Park, George was the first professional park service employee to bring focus to wildlife in the parks. His management plans led to novel policies in national park management, such as an end to bear-feeding attractions.

  pbs.teachers

  

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Hey mi gente,

Elisabeth here. Contexto has been on pause for the summer because tbh I’ve been traveling since the start of the year, so I wasn’t in the loop as I’d liked to have been! That said, I loved reading up on what I missed, and hopefully for those that were also taking a break from news or beaching it up, it serves as a helpful recap for you too. <3

In this edition, we bring you contexto recapping the summer’s biggest moments in Latino entertainment & what’s coming in the fall:

• Bad Bunny turned hurricane season into an economic boom. His sold-out residency in Puerto Rico brought in over $200M to the island, sold more than 400k tickets, and drew in 600k fans to the island

• More Benito: He live-streamed his tour’s finale show & broke the record for the most-watched Amazon Music livestream (Rolling Stone). Plus, this summer he staged a late-night talk show takeover, appearing on both The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and Late Night with Seth Meyers the same night. He taught Colbert some Puerto Rican slang like "pa’ que aprenda.” Watch the viral clip.

• Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran tour became one of the biggest of the year. SoFi Stadium welcomed its 10 millionth guest during her August 4 LA show, and she’s already earned over $100 million in ticket sales. Hola! USA has the details.

• Karol G hit 1 billion streams and made Billboard’s Latin chart history with 20 tracks charting at once.

• My longtime crush (and everyone else’s, ugh), Pedro Pascal was on the cover of Vanity Fair, looking like a full-on telenovela leading man.

• Jurassic World Rebirth hit theaters July 2 with ticket sales clearing the $750 million milestone in the first weekend. I LOVE these movies – I have such great memories of watching them as a kid. Remezcla sat down with one of the film’s stars, Manuel García-Rulfo (aka the Lincoln Lawyer).

And that’s a wrap on summer! We’d love to hear from you. What summer moment was your favorite, and did we miss anything special?

Con cariño,

Elisabeth Rosario (The Latinx Collective)
Cristina Escobar (LatinaMediaCo)

Sin Filtro: Fall Entertainment Predictions Q&A with media critic Cristina Escobar

We are so lucky to have Cristina, a noted media critic, as co-author of Con Texto. She answered all my questions in this very special interview about what to expect in Latino entertainment this Fall:

Looking back at this summer, what moments in entertainment stood out for their Latino impact, whether box office, TV, or cultural buzz?

Your man, Pedro Pascal, for sure. After (spoiler coming!) being killed off in the second season of The Last of Us, he had a packed summer, including being one third of the love triangle in Celine Song’s Materialists.

That film caused a lot of conversation. Part of it was Song coming off Past Lives, which I thought was a pretty near-perfect film, and delivering something much more traditional. Part of it was the film’s aside about the lengths men will go to be… taller.

But the main buzz was around how the film encourages women to settle! In her review for Latina Media Co, Angélica Escobar vented how The Materialists Wastes Pedro Pascal on a Story that Punishes Female Ambition.

Streaming platforms keep sending mixed signals. They’re greenlighting shows with Latino talent but also canceling others too soon. Which platforms are really investing this fall and winter?

That’s a great question! I have to give a shout-out to Netflix, which is greenlighting a lot of Latino content (and giving Latiné journalists access to it). They clearly spent a lot of money on Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, starring Oscar Isaac no less. They’ve already promised us a third season of Wednesday, and I appreciate how Latinos basically were the only new part of their Happy Gilmore 2.

Netflix is also investing in Spanish-language programming and I’m here for that. Their Los Gringo Hunters flipped the narrative, following Mexican police deporting gringo criminals back to the U.S! Las Muertas/The Dead Girls satirized our warped relationship to true (sex) crime. And their En El Barro/In the Mud took us deep within a fictional Argentine women’s prison.

That said, they are the network that canceled One Day at a Time, Julia and the Phantoms, and Gentefied. I have not forgotten! So I guess what I’m saying is that we should be wary of big corporate networks and switch our subscription dollars depending on what they’re offering – until they prove that platforming our talent isn’t a trend but a valued part of their business.

We’ve seen more Latino stars on late night and mainstream shows, even as those audiences shrink. Does that visibility actually move the needle?

Late night is in crisis right now. I’m writing this as we’re hoping Kimmel returns to the airwaves. I’m not going to sugarcoat it – censoring comics is no longer a warning sign of approaching fascism. We're in it.

But, as hopefully your abuela can tell you, that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. There’s so much we can do, and I’m glad that our Latinx stars are doing their part. When Diego Luna took over Jimmy Kimmel Live!, it was an absolute delight.

And I do think it matters. Why else would they be working so hard to keep our stories off air?

Which upcoming films or shows featuring Latinos are you most excited about?

You know, end of year is when we get the awards-contenders and I’m pretty excited about the Latinx contenders this year.

I got to see Kiss of the Spider Woman at Sundance - in the same (very big) theater as JLo – and I can’t wait for everyone else to catch it. It’s a queer musical by Dreamgirls director Bill Condon about Argentina’s Dirty War. And everyone is going to be talking about Tonatiuh – because his is the epitome of a “star is born” performance.

We’ll also have Guillermo del Toro back in the mix with Frankenstein, and he’s always got a good chance at winning. Usually, I don’t think we need additional remakes of well-worn stories like Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel, but del Toro is always the exception (remember his Pinocchio? It was too scary for my kids to watch!). Plus, I appreciate how the famed director appears to be more purposefully spotlighting other Latinx talent these days.

And lastly, I can’t wait to catch Hedda, starring our very own Tessa Thompson. Latina critic Kristen Lopez calls the film “cruel in all the best ways” and that is totally my jam. Sign me up for the Nia DeCosa period piece about a conniving woman and her mess.

Con Texto is a special entertainment edition of The Latinx Collective in partnership with Latina Media Co.

Cristina here. I have some contexto for you about “Andor,” the Diego-Luna starring prequel to a prequel that’s got everyone - including non-Star-Wars fanatics - spinning.

The second season premiered in April, promising to complete the timeline between where the first season ends and “Rogue One” begins. Now, way back in 2022, when the show was first dropping, I asked Luna if Cassian Andor is Latino on the show and he wouldn’t say. Which vaguely makes sense because Latinidad is an identity tied to a specific geopolitical reality that doesn’t exist in these sci-fi epics.

Or does it? Because as the second season of “Andor” unfolds, Luna’s character and his partner Bix, played by American/Puerto Rican/Guatemalan-descended actress Adria Arjona, are very Latino-coded.

It’s not just the Mesoamerican iconography or his refugee past—this season, Bix is an undocumented farm worker facing the harsh realities that go with that, including violence and exploitation, a reality for many women in our fields. The backlash to that scene aside, Andor reveals some important truths about what society looks like as it descends into tyranny. And that couldn’t be more relevant today - or frankly more Latinx as our histories, stars, and realities mix in this sci-fi thriller that can’t shake off its Latinidad, no after how hard it pretends to.

“Andor” is political. And Latinx. And that’s what makes it so good.

Now that you’ve got the contexto, let’s get into the cultura. Here's what we’re loving this month.

Con cariño,
Cristina Escobar (Latina Media Co)
Elisabeth Rosario (The Latinx Collective)

🔥 Sin Filtro: Our Monthly Hot Takes

“Bad Bunny and Fuerza Regida just made history—as the first-ever Spanish-language albums to simultaneously sit at Nos. 1 and 2 on the Billboard 200 album chart. The charts finally sound like our playlists. DeBÍ TiRAR Más FOToS is Bad Bunny at his most emotional and experimental, and 111XPANTIA is full corridos tumbados. Reggaetón and regional Mexicano aren’t niche anymore. As a longtime Bad Bunny fan and a growing fan of regional sounds like Grupo Frontera and Peso Pluma, I love this for us.”

–Elisabeth

📖Read more on Los Angeles Times: Bad Bunny, Fuerza Regida make Latin music history on the Billboard 200 by Carlos De Loera

“The algorithm is hilarious sometimes and it definitely did its thing around “Sinners,” the much-praised horror flick by “Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler. On my feed, I didn’t see anybody saying “Sinners” needed more Latinos BUT I did see a lot of people dragging folks for supposedly having that particular take. Mi gente - it should go without saying but Black people are part of our community and when they win, we all win. But also, don’t get tricked by social media feeding you the most inflammatory things! Disinformation is real and here to divide us. Over at Latina Media Co, we published a review of “Sinners,” by Afro-Latina critic DarkSkyLady, breaking down the film’s thoughtful racial analysis. Link below! –Cristina

📖Read more on Latina Media Co: “‘Sinners’ Masterfully Makes White People Ego the Problem” by DarkSkyLady

🎬📺🎙️More Cultura Curated (For Us, By Us)

• Refinery29: Rosario horror movie taps into ancestral sacrifice and Palo.

• The LA Times: NBC’s ‘Lopez vs. Lopez’ (starring George Lopez) cancellation underscores ongoing broadcast struggles

• HipLatina: Real Women Have Curves is making its Broadway debut.

• Rolling Stone: 7 Things We Learned From Colombian superstar Karol G’s ‘Tomorrow Was Beautiful’ Documentary

• Remezcla: Sundance Film Festival announces CDMX 2025 edition—here’s what we know.

🎙️ Latinx Storyteller Spotlight: Etienne Hernandez Medina on Leading with Purpose

As Founder & CEO of H&M Communications, Etienne Hernandez Medina and his team have spent over two decades shaping the narratives behind some of Hollywood’s biggest campaigns—from Blue Beetle (DC’s first Latino superhero) to major launches with the studios at Amazon, Telemundo, and Warner Bros. In his Latinx Excellence in PR interview for HPRA, Etienne shares how his journey from freelancer to agency leader was rooted in resilience and a deep commitment to authentic, culturally grounded storytelling.

“I didn’t go into this industry with the intention of owning an agency—I was trying to survive in a world where I didn’t always feel seen or valued.”

Read more on LinkedIn (Disclosure: I interviewed Etienne for this series)

Subscribe now

Con Texto is a partnership between The Latinx Collective and Latina Media Co. Read past issues on Latina Media Co’s archive.

Hey mi gente,

I’m excited to bring you something new: Con Texto — a special entertainment edition of our newsletter created in partnership with Cristina Escobar, co-founder of Latina Media Co and nationally recognized Latina media critic (Rotten Tomatoes, Critics Choice, Roger Ebert).

Don’t worry, The Latinx Collective will still be in your inbox with our usual stories and resources.

But once a month, you’ll also get Con Texto. Why the name Con Texto? Translated from Spanish, Con Texto means “with text” — but it’s also a play on words that speaks to the context our stories deserve.

Inside each issue:

• Sin Filtro: Our hot takes on everything from the screen to the bookshelf, including the business behind it all

• More Cultura Curated: Articles written by and for community

• Latinx Storyteller Spotlight: Get to know the people behind your favorite outlets, businesses, and stories

Thanks for being part of this community. We’re so glad you’re here. Let’s go deeper — Con Texto.

Con cariño,
Elisabeth Rosario (The Latinx Collective)
and Cristina Escobar (Latina Media Co)

🔥 Sin Filtro: Our Monthly Hot Take

Where we share our perspectives on Latinx entertainment stories stirring up conversation.

“Snow White bombed at the Box Office and I’m worried that Disney is going to take the wrong lesson. It wasn’t pro-Palestine Rachel Zegler’s fault! It was Disney’s hypocrisy. They want to celebrate plucky young women who speak their minds – but only when they’re fictional. When it’s a real person, and particularly when that person is a racialized woman, Disney has nothing nice to say about their leading ladies. They leave Rachel Zegler to face a racist, sexist Internet mob on her own and then wonder why people don’t show up to see her updated portrayal of Snow White – It’s condescension and hypocrisy at best and racism and sexism at work.”

– Cristina

For context: Rachel Zegler, the Latina actress that plays Snow White, is being blamed for the film’s poor performance. 📖Read more: “Why are there so many controversies around Snow White?” featuring Cristina on CBC Commotion

“For decades, Calvin Klein campaigns defined who’s “in,” selling desire through a whitewashed lens of cool. But that lens is shifting. Bad Bunny’s latest campaign went viral and pulled in $8.4M in media exposure within 48 hours (per WWD) — all without him changing a thing: rapping in Spanish, rocking kinky curls, repping Puerto Rico, and embracing fluid masculinity. As he told GQ: “I want to inspire others to embrace their individuality and express themselves freely.” That’s not just a brand line — it’s a signal. Latino visibility isn’t niche. It’s influence. It’s value. And it’s reshaping what authenticity in branding actually looks like.”

–Elisabeth

For context, Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny is the latest talent to star in Calvin Klein’s famous underwear campaign. 📖Read more: Latina Media Co: “Thank you, Calvin Klein: Bad Bunny Rompe el Internet.

🎬📺🎙️More Cultura Curated (For Us, By Us)

• Rolling Stone: Bad Bunny’s Tiny Desk performance is a masterclass in intimacy.

• FIERCE by mitú: Netflix’s Adolescence unpacks machismo and masculinity.

• Latina Media Co: 8 trailblazing Latina authors you should know.

• De Los by LA Times: Selena’s legacy, 30 years later.

• Remezcla: ‘The Last of Us’ is Changing the Narrative When It Comes to Latine Representation on TV

🎙️Latinx Storyteller Spotlight: The Latino Media Consortium: Reclaiming Our Media, On Our Terms

This month, we’re spotlighting the Latino Media Consortium, a coalition fighting for equitable investment in Latinx-owned, digital-first media. They recently launched the Latino Media Content Hub, a new, distributed way to get the 65 million Latinos in the U.S. the news and information we need. Co-founded by Amanda Zamora of Agencia Media and Lucy Flores of Luz Media — this collective is pushing philanthropy and funders to meet the moment: millions of Latinx news consumers deserve trusted, independent, culturally grounded journalism. Together, they’re working to shift power, build infrastructure, and ensure that our stories are told by us and for us.

Latina Media Co is a proud founding member and couldn’t be more inspired by their work. 🛠️ Learn more about their mission — and how you can get involved.

Con Texto is a partnership between The Latinx Collective and Latina Media Co.

Support The Latinx Collective and never miss a post. Subscribe for free—or chip in as a paid subscriber to help this work grow:

What’s one great thing that happened to you this week? Reply and let me know.

For me, my cousin Vanessa took the day off from work to support me on Tuesday as I dropped my pup Zelda at the vet hospital for her second chemo treatment. We spent the day at the museum, going on walks, having great meals, and then picked Zelda up in the evening. Prima - l love you!

I also wanted to share some life advice I came across this week:

The above is advice given to a fictional character on the show “This is Us” (lol yea I’m watching the show right now) by a reverend who says he’s a pro at giving deathbed advice. I can’t stop thinking about it!

I hope you enjoy this week’s newsletter. Let me know if any of the below articles resonate, if you’d like to see other content, or whether you have any news or shoutouts you’d like me to share.

Con amor,
Elisabeth Rosario

📰 Articles of the week:

• The Guardian: Christopher Columbus may have been Spanish and Jewish, documentary says

• The LA Times Latinx Files: Fertility care and embracing ancestral holistic medicine

  “This is the false notion that Western medicine is superior than any other types of treatments available,” Pānquetzani said. “They don’t understand the spirit behind the work. I would ask that doctor, ‘Have you received this type of care?’ If they did have any experience with it, they wouldn’t be so dismissive.” Both Luz and Toro de Guertin said their doctors disregarded holistic medicine, even though neither had plans to replace their IVF treatments completely. Luz described an “arrogance” from doctors, a sense that “they have to be right or their whole practice comes into question.” Of course, not all Western fertility doctors turn their nose up at holistic medicine or behave this way. Many encourage a mix of both Western and holistic medicine, as do holistic practitioners. But it shouldn’t be so hard to find medical care at an accessible price that allows space for both.

• Associated Press: More Black and Latina women are leading unions — and transforming how they work

  Black and Latina women are driving labor union growth in the U.S. amid a decades-long decline in membership. In 2023, Black women’s union membership rate notched a slight bump from 10.3% to 10.5%, while Latinas went up from 8.5% to 8.8%. Today’s examples of diverse union leaders include Becky Pringle, a Black woman who leads the National Education Association, the nation’s largest union; Bonnie Castillo, the first Latina to serve as executive director of National Nurses United; and April Verrett, who in May became the first Black woman to lead the Service Employees International Union…

• HipLatina: 10 Spooky TV Shows & Movies Starring Latinas. From "Wednesday" to "Huesera", these shows and films starring Latinas and perfect for spooky season

• Remezcla: Meet the Latinas Who Are Reshaping Goth Culture

Goodies of the week:

• Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is the annual celebration to honor and remember the dead and celebrate life. One of the biggest activities for the holiday is building an ofrenda and placing objects and symbols on it to honor the dead. The ofrendas that people make are meant to be bright so the souls of lost loved ones can find their way. Each of the items on an ofrenda is placed with a specific reason that correlates to Indigenous cultures. Watch this video on how to make an ofrenda/altar of your own at home.

• This week I watched the Selena Gomez documentary, My Mind & Me. It came out 2 years ago, but it popped up in my Apple TV feed and I decided to finally watch it. It’s a very intimate and raw look at Selena’s mental health journey over a six year time period. She navigates a devastating breakup, a long struggle with depression and anxiety, an autoimmune disease, a bipolar diagnosis, and more. Highly recommend.

• Explaining the “Mi Gente Latino” meme

I appreciate you checking out this issue. Please forward this to friends or family that you think would like it. If you have news or personal shoutouts/celebrations to submit, are interested in sponsoring a newsletter issue, or want to write for us - just send me a note by replying back!

Some personal news. This summer, I did a fun cross-country drive from Los Angeles to Brooklyn in 8 days. I have been living in California since November 2020 and decided to come to NYC for the summer, but it turns out I’ll be here for at least another few months. Would love to hang IRL if you’re around!

Besides that, it’s been a while since I’ve sent the newsletter but I’m excited to kick things off again and I’m testing a new format. As always, the focus is on celebrating Latinos and supporting each other. Let me know what you think and what else you’d like to see here!

Con amor,
Elisabeth Rosario

Articles I read this week:

• NPR ALT LATINO: Celebrating the legacy of Celia Cruz (it’s the 50th Anniversary of when Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco made history with the release of their iconic album Celia & Johnny. This album transformed the world of salsa, becoming a turning point not only for Celia’s career but for Latin music as a whole)

• Today Show: The rise of Tajín: How Mexico’s spicy, citrusy seasoning made it big in the US

• Elle.com: 30 books written by Latinx Authors to add to your reading list

• Stanford Report: The Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative connects Latino entrepreneurs

• Sports Business Journal: The Chicago Bulls launch a Spanish-language Instagram account

• The Los Angeles Times: The ‘Latino vote’ is a myth. My road trip through the Southwest tells a more complex story

No one would trek through inhospitable terrain, far away from home, just to be a burden on a new land. My dad didn’t. His brothers and sisters didn’t. The new migrants don’t.

Sadly, more and more Latinos don’t feel this way. They want the new migrants out of here.

Internet goodies of the week:

• Llapanchik Hampinakuy is a new online directory of Indigenous healers founded by two Quechua women. They’re on a mission to center and amplify Indigenous, Native, and First Nation communities and voices. Look forward to watching their growth!

• When your Latino parents struggle to understand what WFH is (via Thatiana Diaz)

• Puerto Rican phrases that just *make sense* (via Carlos Calderon)

• When you think you’re fluent in Spanish but then you hang out with Dominicans (via JGivesBack)

• Self promo! Check out my new series with the Hispanic Public Relations Association putting a spotlight on Latino PR excellence (please subscribe to their YouTube channel, leave a comment, and share!)

I appreciate you checking out this issue. Please forward this to friends or family that you think would like it. If you have news or personal shoutouts/celebrations to submit, are interested in sponsoring a newsletter issue, or want to write for us - just send me a note by replying back!

Check out this Instagram post we did previously highlighting the content creators and organizers who are sharing Black Latino stories all year long. Follow and support them - you'll learn more about Black history and stories within Latin America, as well as the experiences and stories of the Black Latinx community in the U.S.

Jiselle O’Neal, founder of Suenos Coffee Co., a subscription service that provides users with women-owned coffee brands, remembers being in love with coffee since she was seven-years-old. The Latinx Collective caught up with Jiselle to discuss the lack of women in the coffee roasting industry, managing a side hustle as a mother, advice for Latina entrepreneurs and more. Check out the article here, and our Instagram post about it here.

MUST-READ LATINX NEWS & PERSPECTIVES:

Sports

Tony Perez is a former professional baseball player, coach and manager. He played in Major League Baseball as a first baseman and third baseman from 1964 through 1986, most notably as a member of the Cincinnati Reds dynasty that won 4 National League pennants and 2 World Series championships. Afro-Latino players like Tony Perez 0pened the door for Black men, who are among the biggest stars in baseball today. Who would have thought in 1960 that by 2022 three Afro Latinos would be elected to join Perez, Clemente and Ted Williams in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown?

Business + Economy

Web3 Familia founder Orlando Gomez is a new crypto investor building a network to educate Latinos about how to navigate the Web3 investing boom. Go check out his community Web3 Familia, it's on Discord here).

"Web3 Familia is now an online network of 600-plus Latinos that connect over Discord, led by five core team members who have experience in marketing, community building, investment banking and blockchain technology. The network has gained traction through social media, and by hosting online webinars for Latinos who want to join and learn about the fundamentals of Web3, how the blockchain works, or which NFTs to look out for. "

Culture + Entertainment

LA Times music reporter Suzy Exposito wrote a great article about how media companies like Sonoro and Futuro Media, uniquely led by all-Latinx creative and business teams, are finding success with Latino-focused podcasts.

“We’re bringing to life so many stories from Latinx writers who typically wouldn’t have their ideas developed by Hollywood, because they wouldn’t be taken seriously despite the huge audience demand for Latinx content,” says Camila Victoriano, co-founder and head of partnerships at Sonoro. Sonoro currently has 10 of the Top 100 podcasts in Latin America, including the No. 1 Spanish-language podcast in the world, “Leyendas Legendarias,” a comedy series that riffs on true crime and the paranormal.

*disclosure: Sonoro is a PR client of mine

Is anyone going to go see Bad Bunny in concert? I'd love to go to one of his Latin American shows.

Bad Bunny's tour pre-sale date now ranks as the top sales date for any tour since 2018, making it the highest-selling post-pandemic event to date. According to projections from Billboard, the tour is expected to gross anywhere from $63 million to $84 million!!! 💪🏾

Puerto Rican actor Michaela Jaé Rodriguez recently won her first Golden Globe for her iconic performance in FX's "Pose." Her win is not only a huge accomplishment for Rodriquez, but also for the trans community. She is now the first trans actress to win a major acting Golden Globe. On Instagram, she wrote:

This is the door that is going to open the door for many more young talented individuals. They will see that it is more than possible. They will see that a young Black Latina girl from Newark New Jersey who had a dream, to change the minds others would WITH LOVE. LOVE WINS.

Health

If you're still looking for inspiration for the new year, here's a great episode of the Death, Sex & Money podcast. Robin Arzón is an inspiration to many people due to her tough love teaching style and confidence-boosting mantras. She left behind a successful law career and reinvented herself into an avid ultra-marathon runner and the Vice President of Fitness Programming and Head Instructor at Peloton. In this episode the Cuban-Puerto Rican author and global fitness leader talks about her life before getting into athletics, how becoming a mother changed her relationship to her body, and the limits she places on her time. 

🥳 Felicidades to the community 🥳

• Sandy Batres was promoted to Technical Program Manager at Squarespace. And, congrats on 8 years at the company

• Carolina Moreno is six months into her new job at YouTube as their Creator Communities Manager

• Former Amazon and Google product and marketing exec Anthony Hernandez recently joined OpenSea, the world's largest NFT marketplace, as product manager.

✋🏽 Have an accomplishment you'd like us to share or know someone who does? Reply to this email with your shout outs. Let's celebrate each other!

I really appreciate you checking out this issue. Please forward this to friends, colleagues, family or strangers. You can also:

• Visit The Latinx Collective’s Etsy store to purchase stickers - and there will be more coming soon!

• Post a tweet to share this with your friends, and tag us on social if you share any of the the articles in the newsletter: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook.

• Browse The Latinx Collective’s first-of-its-kind (Free) map & directory of 150+ Latinx business owners around the country.Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added, or suggest a friend or family member ❤️

• Support this Latinx-led team anytime by buying us a cafecito: Venmo: @thelatinxcollective. Cash App: $thelatinxcollective

Jessica Yañez recently launched the first-ever Latiné-owned wine brands directory. I caught up with Jessica to talk about what inspired her to launch it, why she thinks it’s important, and her thoughts behind “hustle culture.” Check out the Q&A!🍷

MUST-READ NEWS

Culture

In case you missed it, a 36 episode telenovela called "Princess of South Beach" debuted in October. The series pays homage to everything we love about telenovelas but adds modern storylines (like LGBTQ relationships, unfair beauty standards, and more). What makes it unique: it's an audio telenovela that's available right in your podcast feed, in both English and Spanish. Co-produced by Sonoro and iHeartMedia, the series was written, directed and sound engineered in both English and Spanish and features A-list Hollywood talent that's 100% Latinx. There are still 10 new episodes in the first season that have yet to launch, but you can binge up to 26 episodes here, if you want to catch up.

Set to open in May 2022, the Molina Family Latino Gallery is the first gallery dedicated to Latino contributions to the U.S, and will serve as the preview of the National Museum of the American Latino. It is envisioned as an introduction to centuries of Latino heritage and culture. This is a great preview on what the latest updates are on the much-anticipated museum, and how hard the team has been working to make it happen.

Puerto Rican reggaeton star and rapper Bad Bunny — who released albums YHLQMDLG and EL ÚLTIMO TOUR DEL MUNDO in 2020 — received more than 9.1 billion streams worldwide this year, an increase from 8.3 billion in 2020. He edged out Taylor Swift for the coveted title of most-played artist this year. WEPA!

Business + Economy

Michael Sayman, who comes from Peruvian and Bolivian parents, arrived in Miami in 1996. His struggle with isolation at school inspired him to spend time with technology. He created 4Snaps, a popular smartphone game, which caught the attention of Mark Zuckerberg. When Zuckerberg hired him, Sayman became the youngest Facebook employee at age 17. Now at age 25, Sayman is the Senior Product Manager at the video game company Roblox. He strives to inspire young teens to get passionate early on and not let anything get in their way.

Sayman said “Ultimately, it doesn’t matter how smart you are, but how crazy and determined and annoyingly persistent, that decides whether you will be successful.”

The Latino community is twice as likely to start a new business in the United States, compared to any other segment of the population. And according to the Peterson Institute of International Economics, over the next two decades it will also account for 85% of all new job holders in the U.S. workforce.

EXTRAS:

• NPR: Harvard's 148-year-old student newspaper gets its first Latina president. Congratulations to Raquel Coronell Uribe, a history and literature major from Miami.

• Stanford Graduate School of Business Presents: The 2020 State of Latino Entrepreneurship Report. 💸

• Amazon spotlighted some of its Latino leaders across various departments including: Elena Marroquín, Paul Font, Pedro Maldonado, Vanessa Velasquez, Juan Gonzales, Diana Enriquez, Dora Maria Abreu & Ana Sánchez-Jáuregui.⭐

SPOTLIGHT SERIES:

For this edition of the Spotlight series, I want to shout out some of the people who have helped this passion project of mine grow throughout the years! Thanks to Carlos Russo for being our incredible web developer since day one, Carolina Gonzalez for her impressive design skills & her support in getting the Etsy store launched this year, Bianca Alvarez for her many editorial contributions as our 2021 Summer intern, and Danielle LeBaron for her patience with me, overall persistence and operational superpowers. 💐

I really appreciate you checking out this issue. Please forward this to friends or family. You can also:

• Visit The Latinx Collective's Etsy store!

• Post a tweet to share this with your friends, and tag us on social if you share any of the the articles in the newsletter: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook.

• Browse The Latinx Collective’s first-of-its-kind (Free) directory of 150+ Latinx business owners around the country. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added, or suggest a friend or family member ❤️

• Support this Latinx-led team anytime by buying us coffee: Venmo: @thelatinxcollective. Cash App: $thelatinxcollective

BUSINESS/ECONOMY:

I Love Lucy will live on forever as one of the most endearing and hilarious shows ever created, but the show's influence far outweighs its on-screen success thanks to Desi Arnaz, Lucille Ball's co-star and real life husband. In this episode of Planet Money, NPR takes a deep look into how Desi's revolutionary thinking paved the way for the television industry to become a financial powerhouse. 📺. It's said that the television was invented by Philo Farnsworth in 1927, but TV was invented by Desi Arnaz in 1951. He took a funny, beloved show and turned it into an entrepreneurial empire.⭐

Impetus, innovation, and success aren’t limited to only the young, proven by these three Latina entrepreneurs. Rea Ann Silva, founder of Beauty Blender, took her skills as a makeup artist and created the famous beauty blender sponge (I love this sponge!) and turned it into a $215 million per year biz. Valdé Beauty founder Margarita Arriagada solved a dilemma known by all makeup lovers: how to never run out of our favorite lipsticks.💄 She did this by creating a reusable lipstick tube that can be refilled with your favorite lip color once it runs out, thus enabling the user to keep their adored tube while limiting their carbon footprint. Beyond being a mother and running a household, Aisha Ceballos-Crump runs two beauty brands (Honey Baby Naturals and Botanika - both available at Target and Amazon), as well as a beauty brand incubator.

SPORTS:

If you enjoyed our blog post about Latinx trailblazers in the sports industry, check out this article be AL DÍA News. Kassandra Garcia is making headlines as the highest-ranking Latina in the NFL. The 27-year-old pushed through racial and gender barriers, where only 7% of professional management positions in the NFL are women of color, in her role as a football management analyst.🏈 She thanks her mom and second-generation Mexican-American grandparents, who fought language barriers and societal struggles to build thriving Mexican restaurants in Arizona, for the inspiration to create her own successful career.💪🏽

Many don't know how lucrative it is to work as a skilled tradesperson. Roger Cuadra is a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technician at Nexgen Air and Heat, who was born in Nicaragua and raised in Whittier, CA. In 2021 he aims to cross the $100,000 salary mark. The skilled trades aren't just stable, they also experience significant growth in unpredictable job markets (like the last year with COVID). They also allow opportunities for those who don't want to, or can't afford, a traditional four-year college degree. We should make more young adults aware that they can pursue high-paying, stable careers in the trades - without racking up tens of thousands in student debt.

HISTORY:

They say history is always written by the winners. Here's a great article touching on the long-standing debates we have in the U.S. and around the world about what we've read in history textbooks . In this case, it's whether the 1521 surrender of the great Indigenous empire to the Spanish crown 500 years ago was a triumphant conquest, an existential tragedy or a genocide.

The usual textbook portrayal of a band of brave Europeans toppling the most powerful Indigenous empire in the Americas may have some cinematic qualities but has always been suspect, particularly to professional historians like myself.

On this anniversary in Mexico, men and women spend the day dancing, performing limpias, and keeping Mesoamerican—and particularly Aztec—traditions alive. Some of them study Nahuatl, read history, and try to make sense of those long-ago events.

POLITICS

Every vote matters,✔ proven by Julia Mejia’s election to the Boston City Council two years ago when one vote literally made the difference and won her the fourth at-large seat. Her win made her the first Afro-Latina on the Boston City Council, one that has seen very little Latinx presence throughout the years. Mejia's victory helped pave the way for more Latinx members to join Boston's political sphere. And although the Latinx representation is still very minor in Boston politics, members like Mejia and fellow City Councilman Ricardo Arroyo are bringing about meaningful effects to the community. Representation matters because it begets more representation.

SPOTLIGHT SERIES

I love to highlight Latinx trailblazers and entrepreneurs so I'm bringing back the Spotlight series! Today we celebrate Dr. Oriel Maria Siu, who was born in Honduras to a Chinese-Nicaraguan father and a Salvadoran-Guatemalan-Pipil mother. Dr Siu is an ethnic studies professor who earned her PhD from UCLA and views each word in her children's books as border-smashing, anti-racist, decolonial acts of love. Here's a great article in the Los Angeles Times featuring her line of books and mission. Visit her website to learn more about her "Rebeldita" book series. Filled with empowering rhymes, captivating Illustrations, and lessons to live by, the character Rebeldita educates, inspires and empowers.  📖

I really appreciate you checking out this issue. Please forward this to friends or family. Some other actions you can take:

• Post this tweet and please tag us if you share any of the the articles in the newsletter.We’re on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

• Browse The Latinx Collective’s first-of-its-kind directory of 150+ Latinx business owners around the country. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. It’s free!

• Reply to this email if you want to write for us or partner.

CULTURE

What struck the editor of this article was that Vivo portrays Latinx identities as normal, in that what makes the main character unique is not actually her racial or ethnic background but instead her bold, quirky personality. The story itself follows a kinkajou monkey or Latin American "honey bear" named Vivo on his quest to complete the dying wish of his first human friend, Andrés, a musician. The musical features vibrant cuban music, and the characters' journey takes them across Havana, Key West, the Everglades and Miami. Watch the trailer here and find the full film on Netflix.

Vivo is an especially good film for kids because it subtly shows them that there isn't anything "different" about having family members who speak Spanish or hail from Latin America.

The program is part of NHMC’s commitment to making Hollywood a more inclusive industry by supporting Latinx creatives at various stages of their careers with networking opportunities with industry pros, finding staffing opportunities and learning how to sell their scripts to top studios and networks. Congratulations to this amazing group of talented storytellers! 🎉 Can't wait to see what kind stories they will tell.

BUSINESS/ECONOMY:

In a recent study conducted by the Urban Institute, 70% of homeownership growth from 2020-2040 is expected to come from Latinos, making the community the growth engine of America's residential real estate market. 💪🏾. Nearly one in three Latinos is in peak home-buying years (25-44 yrs old), according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lastly, markets with the highest rate of Latino home ownership include Boise, Idaho, and Durham, North Carolina!

IDENTITY:

The use of the term "Latinx" has been a divisive issue for some time -- and a new poll shows that it's the least popular signifier among Hispanic and Latino people. What do YOU think?

The term "Latinx" was originally intended to be used for folks who fall outside the male/female gender binary, and may not want to identify as "Latino" or "Latina." Since 2016, the term has grown in popularity online, but it has also been criticized.

SPORTS

A rundown of some of the athletes that made history - and headlines - this year, including: Rebeca Andrade, the first Brazilian woman to win a gold medal in gymnastics history, Cuba took home 3 gold medals for boxing thanks to Roniel Iglesias, Arlen Lopez and Julio La Cruz. Richard Carapaz won Ecuador's second-ever Olympic gold medal in the men’s road race, and more. 🥇🏆

SPOTLIGHT SERIES

If you grew up in New York City, you've likely heard of, and probably bought, 'nutcrackers' - alcoholic drinks made with blended fruit juices and various types of liquors, and famously sold illegally on street corners, subway cars or beaches. Above, you can watch the trailer for"Nutcos" which tells the story of the many cartels trying to become the top sellers of the famous illegal drink in Washington Heights. When the FBI is sent in to stop them a new seller, Palomo Escobar (played by Dominican actor and producer Juan Bago), shows up and causes an all-out cartel war. 😂 Ok fine, the trailer is not for a real show but it's a hilarious spoof and you need to watch and share it!!! While you're at it, follow Juan Bago and his acting adventures on Instagram.

I really appreciate you checking out this issue. Please forward this to friends or family. Some other actions you can take:

• Post this tweet and please tag us if you share any of the the articles in the newsletter. We’re on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

• Browse The Latinx Collective’s first-of-its-kind directory of 150+ Latinx business owners around the country. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. It’s free!

• Reply to this email if you want to write for the blog or partner with us.

Interested in how the Latinx community has influenced the children’s book world? Read here to learn more about who they are and the incredible books they’ve published.

Read here to learn about five Latinx health care professionals across the country who are making an impact in their communities by offering services in both English and Spanish.

I really appreciate you checking out this issue. Please forward this to friends or family. Some other actions you can take:

• Post this tweet and please tag us if you share any of the the content in the newsletter. We’re on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

• Browse The Latinx Collective's first-of-its-kind directory of 150+ Latinx business owners around the country. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. It’s free!

I hope that you can use this newsletter as an escape as well as additional motivation, if that’s what you need, this year. I will always aim to leave you with positive and inspirational stories and news about the impact of the Latinx community.

I don’t know who needs to hear this but….. Mercury is in Retrograde (in Aquarius) starting today!! Mercury in Retrograde tends to scare people so I am personally leaning into the positive side of this —> here’s our checklist of how to take advantage of retrograde in our latest Instagram post!

P.S. As always, feel free to reply with feedback, thoughts, article submissions or anything at all. Appreciate your support!

Con cariño,

Elisabeth Rosario

LATINX PERSPECTIVES + STORIES YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Culture (food + entertainment + more):

Wine Enthusiast: Mexican Winemaker Challenges Stereotypes in the Wine Industry

When washing away a long day of stress with a glass of wine, do you ever think of the story behind that bottle? Hidden behind each bottle of wine is a story of its origin. For Edgar Torres, Mexican winemaker & owner of Bodega de Edgar (which he started in 2009) in Paso Robles, CA - his bottles represent the adversity he’s overcome in the wine industry. In this beautiful article, he shares his life story and how he broke into the wine industry in 2009. Now, he’s focused on educating and mentoring other Mexicans in the industry, and if you work in the industry too, wants you to join him.

We should educate more people in the Salinas Valley about opportunities. We should go to the Napa Valley and tell people to strive for more. There are many multimillion dollar brands up there with a majority of Mexican workers. Why aren’t those workers riding shotgun with the famous winemaker, learning the ropes?There’s a hierarchy approach to it, and unfortunately those on the lower rungs are usually darker and perceived to not be destined for more. Until we can remove that, we’re not going to be able to help each other dance on the same floor.

Please go support Edgar, or other Latino winemakers, whenever possible by buying their wine. (Thank you to Wine Enthusiast editor Emily Saladino for submitting this story!).

VICE: Is Netflix’s Selena series part of the never-ending exploitation of Selena Quintanilla?

In December, Netflix released a new biopic ‘Selena: The Series’, and with it there’s been heavy debate on the Latinx stories that get to be told in Hollywood. Granted, Selena Quintanilla is undoubtedly a treasure to the Latinx community. Whether it be her iconic fashion style, her music, or her nuanced bicultural, bilingual identity: Selena’s impact has continuously proven to be timeless. However, is it time we let the icon’s image rest and allow new stories to be in the spotlight? I thought this was a fascinating and unique perspective on the series and I know many people with opinions on both sides of this one. I certainly would LOVE to see more Latinx stories being told beyond Selena’s. I’d love to hear your thoughts too!

Chicago Tribune: Restaurant owners team up in Chicago to support Tamales street vendors’ & donate food to homeless

Robert Magiet, owner of TaKorea Cocina (a small cafe offering creative takes on Mexican-Korean fare) and members of his staff have been buying tamale street vendors' entire supply so they can go home from the cold. Then, Magiet and his staff distribute the tamales to the homeless. He and other restaurant owners have watched the pandemic slowly destroy the restaurant industry, including the street vendors, and have teamed up to provide meals for those in need.

Robert Magiet was driving through Humboldt Park, the temperature outside barely breaking into the double digits, when he noticed a woman selling tamales. “She looked like she had five layers of clothing on,” Magiet said. “I said, ‘Can I buy all your tamales and you can go home?’ She had maybe 10 dozen on her.” “You have to remember some of these vendors are used to selling 30 dozen tamales a day,” he said. “But not many people are leaving their house right now. For months they’re standing out there not selling that many tamales.”

Beautiful story to read if you need a pick-me-up! And a gentle reminder that many small businesses are struggling due to the pandemic and any help you can provide is appreciated.

Politics:

BUSINESS INSIDER: Meet Isabel Guzman, the U.S. Small Business Administrator Biden picked to navigate 'a crossroads moment for small businesses

This is a CRUCIAL time for Latinx small businesses that have been hard-hit by the pandemic to receive support. In terms of her new role, Guzman will need to raise the SBA's public profile in order to effectively reach businesses across the country and support the ongoing economic recovery.

Although the Administrator is a cabinet-level position, the 68-year-old SBA has historically been one of the lower-profile government agencies in Washington. That is, until the COVID-19 pandemic and public health response devastated small businesses across the US. Today, the SBA is responsible for handling nearly a trillion dollars in emergency relief money, having issued more loans in the past nine months than it has in its entire existence before that.

NBC NEWS: 'Ready to take power': Progressives mobilized Latino voters in Georgia, and here are the lessons.

Earlier this month, many celebrated the wins in the Georgia runoff — which led to Democrats taking back the house. Black voters were key to the wins as their turnout was higher than any other demographic group. White voter turnout dropped. And Latinos far outperformed their own turnout for other statewide runoffs and were part of a critical multicultural coalition and infrastructure.

We learned that the years-long struggle to turn out Latino voters for Democratic candidates yielded results. Moreover, ahead of upcoming congressional elections, it showed what's possible.

We have minority organizations to thank for doing what it takes to mobilize multicultural communities.

Business:

AL DÍA: 2020 Report Says Latinos are a tremendous engine of economic growth within the United States

According to this LDC GDP report released in late 2020: “U.S. Latinos had a gross domestic product of $2.6 trillion in 2018 -the eight largest in the world if Latinos were an independent country”. Latinos are one of the biggest and growing contributors to the U.S. 's GDP. Latinos are also spending more, earning better wages and salaries and more of us are obtaining college degrees.

“The hard work and persistence of U.S. Latinos is not only an engine of economic growth, it is an antidote to long term demographic challenges confronting the nation.”

On that note, let’s take action together and put money directly into our communities. The Latinx Collective has a growing business directory you can submit your company to, or use it to find other Latinx entrepreneurs to support.

Bonus:

In December, Disney released the first-look trailer for its new film Encanto, which is set to release in fall 2021. The animated film will take us to Colombia, where an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, live hidden in the mountains of Colombia, in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote the film’s music. Can’t wait to see this one!

P.S. Special thanks to Arelybel Iniguez for helping me curate this one! 😘

Hey, I really appreciate you checking out this issue. Please forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the everyday contributions and stories by the Latinx community. Some other actions you can take:

• Post this tweet and please tag us if you share any of the articles above. We’re on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

• Check out our directory of Latinx business owners. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. If you want to support the household economy of a Latinx business owner, check it out and purchase directly from them. It’s free.

• Keep an eye on our events page. If you’d like to co-host a virtual event with us or become a newsletter sponsor, reply to this email.

It’s been awhile. I've said this a few times but side hustles are tough - especially during a pandemic! So forgive me for taking breaks, but I’m excited to be back and to also share with you some exciting news —we’re now officially on Instagram! Head over to IG and follow @TheLatinxCollective. You can expect inspiration from Latinx trailblazers of all backgrounds, unique narratives around Latinx culture we don’t typically see in the mainstream, a celebration of our many successes, Latinx small businesses and creators to support, and overall positive and fun conversations. Check it out and let me know what you think… here’s a sneak peek:

Con mucho cariño (y amor),

Elisabeth Rosario

LATINX PERSPECTIVES + CONTRIBUTIONS YOU NEED TO READ:

Entertainment + Culture

(1.) CNN: House approves bill to establish Smithsonian Latinx museum

Did you know that there’s a Smithsonian Latinx Museum in the works? In late July, Members of the House approved legislation to establish a National Museum of the American Latino in Washington, DC, as part of the Smithsonian Institution. [It requires a vote because the Smithsonian Institute relies upon a combination of the congressional appropriation and federal grants and contracts.]

The new museum would be dedicated to the documentation of Latinx life, art, history, and culture in America. If built, it will become the latest addition to the Smithsonian family since 2016, when the African American museum had a star-studded grand opening.

(2.) Oprah Magazine: How Walter Mercado Inspired a Generation of Astrologers

In case you missed it, Netflix recently released a documentary celebrating the life of legendary Puerto Rican astrologer Walter Mercado. Many of us grew up with our grandparents or parents watching the flamboyant astrologer on TV or listening to him on the radio. I thought this article was really interesting since it was written by a Cuban astrologist who shared how her and her peers’ careers were inspired in large part by Mercado, who first to introduce them to things like tarot reading, astrology, magic, birth charts and more. If you’ve watched it, let me know what you think!

“Watching such a unique human being command such power was a turning point that showed me the importance of self acceptance and individuality. He challenged our society’s view on sexuality and gender expression," Daze says.

(3.) Forbes: Deepak Chopra And J Balvin Lean Into Vulnerability Through Bilingual Meditation Program

Colombian reggaeton artist J Balvin and alternative medicine pioneer Deepak Chopra have come together to offer a free 21-Day Meditation in both English and Spanish. J Balvin has opened up in the past about his struggles with anxiety and depression. Their new program, Renew Yourself: Body, Mind & Spirit is a 360 look at rejuvenation and is available through Choprameditation.com, or on the app.

“Meditation is one of the many ways that I have dealt with my mental health,” says J Balvin, “it saved my life and to me, can be one of the key first steps in achieving mental and spiritual well-being. Meditation is about opening your mind to self awareness and understanding that your mind is something that needs to be cared for and looked after.”

Politics

(4.) AL DÍA NEWS: Biden’s ‘Latino Roadmap’ to capture the Latinx vote comes from Bernie Sanders

From the article:

It is uncontested that Bernie Sanders (D-VT) emerged as the Democratic candidate with the most successful Latino outreach strategy. Since Joe Biden became the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate, members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus have encouraged the former VP to take some strategy from Sanders’ book.

That’s where Chuck Rocha comes in, a former senior advisor known for his success at reaching Latinos during Sanders’ campaigns. Rocha is now working with Biden on his Latinx outreach campaign. If this topic intrigues you, Chuck has just written a book titled “Tío Bernie: The Inside Story of How Bernie Sanders Brought Latinos Into the Political Revolution.” It can be pre-ordered here + is officially released on Aug 19th. (Shout out to my friend, Adrian Carrasquillo, who served as an editor for the book)

(5.)THE NY TIMES: Can a Latina Girl Dream of Being President of the United States? (OP-ED)

Jorge Ramos, arguably the best-known Spanish-language news anchor in the U.S., has just published this article for The NYT, which argues that good intentions and hard work won’t be enough to get fair women’s representation in U.S. government. We need laws and structure to lead to gender equity. Other countries in the Western Hemisphere — Nicaragua, Panama, Chile, Argentina, Brazil and Costa Rica — have had women as presidents. Meanwhile, the U.S. still hasn’t.

BONUS:

YOUTUBE: Las Cholitas Voladoras:

Bolivian Independence Day was on August 6th. On our IG account, we highlighted a few of the country’s Cholitas, which are a symbol of the country and an extension of its history and tradition. I highly recommend you watch this incredible short film (shot on iPhone!) that briefly introduces us to the famous “Flying Cholitas” in Bolivia who are breaking barriers as female wrestlers. It’s absolutely gorgeous:

I really appreciate you checking out this week’s issue. Forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the everyday contributions the Latinx community is making. Some other actions you can take:

• Post this tweet and share any of the articles above. If you do share, pretty please tag us on social media– we’re on Twitter: @latinxcollectiv, Instagram: @thelatinxcollective, and Facebook.

• Check out our directory of Latinx business owners. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. If you want to support the household economy of Latinx business owners, check it out and purchase directly from them. It’s free.

• Keep an eye on our events page. If you’d like to co-host a virtual event with us or become a newsletter sponsor, reply to this email.

It’s during times like these that we need positive stories to uplift us the most. The Latinx Collective was formed to empower Latinxers with stories, dialogue, and resources that sport a positive bent and we need these beacons now more than ever. Sure, our community has been hard-hit by the pandemic but we are resilient, and we’ll come out of this intact with firmer resolve and stronger community ties.

And now an announcement: I am proud to welcome my talented friend Bogar Alonso as a contributor to the newsletter, starting with this issue! Bogar is a poet, writer, editor, content marketer, and filmmaker who hails from mid-Mexico and the Midwest. His work has appeared on Vice, Gizmodo, Bustle, Splinter, The Huffington Post, and Complex. If you want to get in touch with him, hit him up about anything related to vegan Mexican food, deep-cut global tunes, and loud shirts. 🤗

For this issue, Bogar compiled a little collection of recipes, pastime ideas, chronicles, and virtual resources that will make passing the time a little easier for you. If you have anything you’d like to submit for a future newsletter, whether it’s a resource, a special recipe or a Latinx business or service we can all support, or to be a guest curator, send an email to Elisabeth: thelatinxcollective@gmail.com

Sending you socially-distant abrazos,

Bogar Alonso + Elisabeth Rosario

THIS WEEK’S SIX—PLUS A BONUS PUPUSA RECIPE

Edition #52 curated by Bogar Alonso

1. Latino frontline workers are honored with new rendition of Spanish U.S. national anthem

Did you know that one of FDR’s biggest regrets was not being able to speak Spanish? Did you also know that under his direction, the U.S. State Department commissioned a Spanish version of the U.S. national anthem? Known as “El Pendón Estrellado,” this particular version of the anthem doesn’t quite get the air time its English counterpart does, but that may soon change with Jeidimar Rijos’s interpretation. Made to pay homage to the Latinx medical workers and food producers on the frontlines, this moving acknowledgement is a stirring reminder of the many contributions our community has made over the decades to the United States. www.hiplatina.com Tweet this article

2. Lotería, or Mexican Bingo, sees a social distancing boon

With all of us shuttered in and many of us riding the wave of nostalgia at max speed, the famous Mexican board game is seeing a bit of a revival. (Unless you were already used to playing it with the homies every weekend, of course). The game’s best played while in a small group but please play it with roommates, significant others, or family you’re already sheltering in place with. Or, better yet, organize a Zoom Lotería party, and invite the whole neighborhood. Aside from the nostalgic appeal, it really does make for the perfect pandemic pastime: 1) Many a Latinx household already owns a set 2) You can use your quarantine stockpile of rice and beans as game markers 3) Yelling “¡Lotería!” at the top of your lungs is one of the best feelings in the world, and will help relieve some of your sheltering-in-place stress! www.oprahmag.com Tweet this article

3. This year’s Los Angeles Latino International Film Fest goes virtual

What better time is there to indulge in the best feature movies, short films, and live music Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, and the United States have to offer?Committed to letting the show go on despite social distancing measures, the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) is streaming a virtual edition from May 5-31, replete with some of the best work from Latinx filmmakers and creatives. Cinephiles can immerse themselves in this year’s programming without endangering their health or leaving their couch. As Edward James Olmos, LALIFF’s founder, tells it: “We are living in unprecedented times and we must find unprecedented solutions to continue to support our Latino filmmakers and provide them with a platform to showcase their work. Working together with our filmmakers, musicians, partners and sponsors we will be able to celebrate our festival virtually to continue to showcase some of the most inspiring and thought-provoking Latino films of 2020 and share with cinephiles everywhere, from the safety of their homes.” www.latimes.com Tweet this article

4. An online summit for side hustlers

Want to learn how to start a side hustle for under $100 while under quarantine? Then, The Side Hustle Summit was tailor-made for you.  Organized by Jannese Torres-Rodriguez, the week-long virtual summit will teach attendees how to use low-cost resources and tools to make extra money through the power of the internet. As Torres-Rodriguez explains, attendees will “walk away feeling inspired and empowered to create streams of income that align with their passions.” Plus, given the state of the economy and the extra time on our hands, this might be the perfect time for those with an entrepreneurial mindset to start that side hustle you’ve been daydreaming about. www.belatina.com Tweet this article

5. The new Latinx-focused Nuestro PAC will mobilize Latinx voters in key battleground states

Though Presidential candidate and Latinx darling Bernie Sanders has dropped out of the 2020 race, a Latinx-focused super PAC has emerged to take up the baton for Latinx voters. Bernie gained a healthy following amongst the Latinx community largely because of political strategist Chuck Rocha, who helped the Vermont Senator win Nevada and California in the Democratic Primary.  Rocha says: “Throughout Sen. Bernie Sanders’ presidential race, Solidarity Strategies showed how to build an effective strategy for Latino outreach and mobilization.” Through his firm Solidarity Strategies, Rocha intends to continue his trailblazing work by mobilizing Latinx voters in battleground states like Michigan, Wisconsin, Florida, Nevada and Pennsylvania. If successful, Rocha will force the political establishment to consider the Latinx voting bloc as they draft new political platforms and legislature. www.thehill.com Tweet this article

6. The power of food in the Latinx community: Restaurant owners, social media campaigns feed first responders and the needy 

Social initiatives across the United States are helping the Latinx community, including Latinx restaurant owners and first responders, during a time of need. The Dine Latino Take-Out Weekend initiative in Philly encouraged city dwellers to support their local Latinx-owned food spots by ordering take-out and delivery. Meanwhile, in South Florida, an Honduran immigrant is offering 150 free lunches on a daily basis to Latinx families who might have relied on public school systems for breakfast and lunch before. In Chicago, the Latinx owners of a small bar & grill donated meals to over 1,000 first responders working at Norwegian American Hospital, 14th District Police Station, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the National Guard. Apart from being amazing works of solidarity, the initiatives show just how much weight food has for us in the Latinx community, and how it can be used as a powerful healing tool when needed. www.philahispanicchamber.org Tweet this article

7. Sink your teeth into a homemade pupusa

As mentioned above, Latinx-owned restaurants around the country are coping with the crisis in their own ways. San Diego-based Salvadoran Restaurant Cuscatlan has shared their family recipe for pupusas as a token of neighborly love. Yum. If you’re in San Diego and want to help support a local establishment, Cuscatlan remains open for delivery and takeout orders Sunday through Friday, 10am to 8pm. www.remezcla.com Tweet this article

Appreciate you checking out this week’s issue. Forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the everyday contributions the Latinx community is making. Some other actions you can take:

• Check out our directory of Latinx business owners. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. If you want to support the household economy of Latinx business owner, check it out and purchase directly from them. It’s free.

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At an event in early February, legendary labor leader Dolores Huerta stressed their importance and the power Latinos across the country have if they both vote and participate in the U.S. Census, including sweeping effects across national and local education, infrastructure and health care. It will also affect the amount of congressional appointments each state has in the House of Representatives, with some gaining and losing seats. This will change how many electoral college votes each state represents in a presidential election. She also cited statistics for how much money could be left on the table for not participating:

"For each one of us that gets counted, we bring in $20,000 into our community,” she was quoted as saying by the San Antonio-based Rivard Report. “Over 10 years, $20,000. If you have a family of four, how much are we going to lose? That money is going to health care, to infrastructure, to education. We’re not going to have that money if they don’t get counted.”

She also set the record straight on the citizenship question, saying that it won’t be part of the census and that the Census process is confidential.

Lastly, here is some information from the Census website on why they ask about ethnicity and what they do with the information collected.

I just started watching Netflix's new series Gentefied. I'm only a few episodes in but I'm really enjoying it! There are a lot of shows lately that discuss the topic of gentrification but I think this one has a fun new take on it. From the Esquire review:

"Netflix gave this series the space and representation it needed to tell a story that tells a compelling narrative about Mexican-American culture without turning it into tragedy for a white audience. It breaks open power dynamics. It plays with generational divides and gives a subtle explanation of how gentrification dismantles communities. It explains what happens when those with power veer out of their lanes. But most importantly, it asks its viewers to stop talking and listen."

Here's the official trailer for the show.

In case you missed it, Bad Bunny just released his latest album this past weekend. It's already Spotify's biggest album debut of 2020. 👏The album is named YHLQMDLG, which stands for "Yo Hago Lo Que Me Da La Gana," Spanish for “I do whatever I want." He sat down with Jimmy Fallon on Thursday night’s Tonight Show to announce the album's release and perform new album track “Ignorantes” with Panamanian artist Sech, and the Roots. Check out the Pitchfork article to watch the videos and performance on the Tonight Show. And here are some other articles on the new album if you're interested:

• PAPER Mag: During the performance, Bad Bunny wore a skirt and a shirt that read, in Spanish, “They killed Alexa, not a man in a skirt.” The statement was a response to the recent murder of Alexa Negrón Luciano, a trans woman in Puerto Rico whose violent death has sparked fresh outrage about the commonwealth’s homophobia. (Thanks to Sandy Batres for the submission).

• Rolling Stone: Bad Bunny Just Released the Best Album of the Year (So Far): Here’s Where to Start

• Vulture: Bad Bunny Is Breaking All the Rules, and It’s a Thrill to Watch (From the article: the female characters in his songs "are romantic equals, players and ballers in their own right. It’s refreshing")

By 2028, Latinx women are forecast to account for 9.2% of the total labor force, up from 7.5% in 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Latinos -- both women and men -- will account for a fifth of the worker pool by then. Additionally, the number of Latinx women with college degrees has doubled in the past 10 years to 4.8 million, increasing their ability to engage with the workforce. Enrollment data shows a significant portion of Latinas remain enrolled in school after age 21, suggesting they are pursuing graduate degrees, or juggling school with work and family support.

The Dominican Republic is the most visited travel destination in the Caribbean. If you're traveling to the Dominican Republic, here are the top 27 best things to do on the island from epic adventures to relaxing spots, according to travel blogger and writer Gerry Isabelle, who runs DominicanAbroad.com. If you're interested in following her adventures, she's on Instagram here. Are there any other favorite Latinx travelers you follow?

Though she is just 8 years-old, Adhara Pérez already boasts a genius level I.Q. in the triple digits. A native of Mexico City, Adhara has a measured I.Q. of 162. To put this into perspective, two of the worlds most famous geniuses, Albert Einstein and Stephan Hawking, each had an estimated I.Q. of 160. She’s hoping to one day become an astronaut and colonize Mars. 🚀🚀

Appreciate you checking out this week’s issue. Forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the every day contributions the Latinx community is making. Some other actions you can take:

• Check out our directory of Latinx business owners. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. If you want to support the household economy of Latinx business owner, check it out and purchase directly from them. It’s free.

• Post this tweet and share any of the articles above and tag us on social media– we’re on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

• Keep an eye on our events page. If you’d like to co-host an event with us or become a sponsor, reply to this email.

This month, "Sesame Street" celebrates its 50th anniversary. It's being celebrated for many things — including pioneering diversity and the representation of Latino characters on TV. Over the years, "Sesame Street" has reflected the changes in society, dealing with issues like homelessness, autism, Afro-Latino identity and grief. But diversity has always been part of the show’s mission. "Sesame Street" has featured many Latinx or Spanish-speaking characters, providing work and exposure for Latino actors including Raul Julia, who appeared in the 1971 season; Carlo Alban, who in 2011 revealed he was undocumented while on the show; and Ismael Cruz Cordova, cast in 2013 after the show held an open call for a new Latino neighbor.

Jennifer Lopez is having a triumphant 2019. From her Motown tribute at the Grammys to the success of “Hustlers” to the announcement that she’ll be performing at the Super Bowl halftime show, she seems to be enjoying the fruits of her labor from about three decades in show business. The Still Processing podcast discusses whether Jennifer Lopez is finally getting her due! Excellent episode and worth a listen!

An article featuring three entrepreneurial Latinas that have been inspired to help others eat better, and are at the forefront of a heritage food movement taking place across the country: a desire to improve traditional foods that are cultural staples in Latino kitchens.

In case you missed it earlier this month, Walter Mercado, one of the most well-known Puerto Rican celebrities, has passed away. Mercado became known throughout Latin America and the U.S. through his television show, with his signature, flamboyant style and his colorful capes. His famous catch phrase to his audience was "Sobre todo, mucho, mucho amor," which translates to “Above all, lots and lots of love.”

It’s a problem that plagues even the priciest of lenses, manufactured to the most exacting specifications: the center of the frame might be razor-sharp, but the corners and edges always look a little soft. Rafael G. González-Acuña, a doctoral student at Mexico’s Tecnológico de Monterrey, has managed to come up with a mind-melting equation that provides an analytical solution for counteracting spherical aberration, which had been previously formulated back in 1949 as the Wasserman-Wolf problem which stumped scientists for decades.

Dominicans began leaving the D.R. in large numbers in the 1960s, seeking political and economic stability after the death of dictator Rafael Trujillo, and settling in Washington Heights because of its large but inexpensive apartments and its access to subway lines that brought them to jobs in the Garment District. The large influx of Dominicans helped to turn around Washington Heights. And in the process, the Dominican community became a major force in the city, both culturally and politically. In fact, Washington Heights is now represented in Washington by the first Dominican-American in Congress, Adriano Espaillat. 🇩🇴De Lo Mio!!!!!!🇩🇴

BONUS ARTICLES:

• Remezcla: Hispanic, Latino or Latinx: New poll looks at how our community prefers to identify

• Inside Abstract blog: Examining the role that remote work plays in preserving Latinx culture across the U.S. by Edgardo Perez

• KRCW.com: Blending cultures and honoring immigrants through Tex-Mex cuisine (and a carne guisada recipe!)

Appreciate you checking out this week’s issue. Forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the every day contributions the Latinx community is making. Some other actions you can take:

• Check out our directory of Latinx business owners. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. If you want to support the household economy of Latinx business owners and services, check it out. It’s free.

• Post this tweet and share any of the articles above and tag us on social media-- we’re on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

• Keep an eye on our events page. If you’d like to co-host an event with us or become a sponsor, email thelatinxcollective@gmail.com

Vogue Latin America revealed the cover of its September issue, and on it were four Black Dominican women: Licett Morillo, Manuela Sánchez, Annibelis Baez and Ambar Cristal. The article shares how the models are making history with their work in the modeling industry, and why the magazine is celebrating them. (Thanks Kori Hale for the submission!)

"Zarzuela was the first Dominican model to open a Louis Vuitton show and the second black model to do so this year. Morillo was the first woman of color to close a Prada show in 2018. Baez has walked for some formidable fashion brands including Dior Haute Couture, Kenzo, and Lanvin and Sánchez has walked in shows for Fendi, Valentino, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Dior and Versace."

Looking for a new show to binge? Season One of Los Espookys debuted in June, so if you haven't seen it yet, check it out on HBO here. Created by Julio Torres, Ana Fabrega and Fred Armisen, Los Espookys is a primarily Spanish-language (with English subtitles) comedy following a group of friends who turn their love for horror into an odd business. It takes place in a dreamy (undefined) Latin American country. From this glowing Vanity Fair review:

"Armisen said he wanted to create a Spanish-language series “that isn’t an explanation of Latino culture, that’s moving past the foreignness of it.… It’s not as if people haven’t heard of Latino culture before. It’s a part of American culture. It’s a shorthand with everyone.”

On this episode of the Business of HYPE, FILA North America’s Vice President of Heritage & Trend, Louis Colon, shares the story behind the brand’s unique approach to marketing and its return to relevancy. He also shares his own journey of entrepreneurship (including losses and successes) and his impact to date at FILA. Think it'd be especially interesting for anyone in the footwear space, retail industry or building a brand.

Here's a list of the greatest innovations of science, technology, and imagination by Hispanic (2 are from Spain) and Latinx inventors. The list of inventors ranges from: Mexican engineer Guillermo González Camarena, who patented a system that would allow television to be viewed in color instead of in black and white - to Argentinian surgeon Domingo Liotta who developed the artificial heart in the late 1950s - to female inventor and teacher Ángela Ruiz Robles, who invented the first mechanical book (e-book) back in 1949. Pa'lante!!!

Whether you're looking to learn Spanish by hearing from native speakers, or want to dig deep into Latino news, humor, culture and politics, Oprah Magazine put together a list of podcasts they think you should hit subscribe on. There are definitely many more out there, but this is a start!

These 4 Latinas share what they've learned building online brands. Check out the full article for more in-depth interviews, but in the meantime, here are some high level takeaways: 1) invest in purchasing samples prior to any sort of planning or strategy for a particular product, and 2) projects that take off are the ones you’re most personally connected to.

Bonus articles:

• Axios: Study: Immigrants and their kids founded 45% of U.S. Fortune 500 companies

• Forbes: Harlem Capital, a backer of minority-and-women-run companies, wins investment from TPG

• Remezcla: Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's tweet about struggling with her Spanish is super relatable

Appreciate you checking out this week’s issue. Forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the every day contributions the Latinx community is making. Some other actions you can take:

• Shop our directory of Latinx business owners. Follow the instructions to submit your info if you’d like to be added. If you want to support the household economy of Latinx business owners and services, check it out. It's free.

• Post this tweet to tell your friends about us (you can also edit it if you'd like).

• Share any of the articles above and tag us on social media, we're on Twitter andInstagram.

• Keep an eye on our events page. If you'd like to partner or sponsor an event, reach out!

• Submit articles by emailing: thelatinxcollective@gmail.com

Your'e probably fed up with my love for Bad Bunny but he uses his fame to create dialogue around complicated topics --- he's a major risk taker🔥 ---, which I think is a nice change of pace for a celebrity. It's a great profile on him - worth the read!

When I ask why he thinks his work resonates so strongly with young queer people, he says, "It's a message of respect, of freedom. I think they feel comfortable, and they feel, I don't know, like part of what I'm doing. They don't feel excluded from the group, but instead, like, 'We're wanted here; we can be ourselves here.'" Self-love, inclusivity and LGBTQ acceptance aren't the only progressive ideas reflected in his music. On "Solo de Mi," he sings about autonomy after terminating a romantic partnership: "Don't call me baby, I'm not yours or anyone else's, I belong only to myself." In the video, the theme was translated as a statement against gender-based violence.... But ultimately, he's offering up proof that artists like him, people who are trying to do something different, can not only exist in the industry but also find success within it. The foundation on which Bad Bunny stands is a positive one — and could be impactful for urbano music, as well as other popular genres. The ripple effect of his continued celebrity could be far-reaching.

Speaking of failure and rejection, 🔥 a Latina entrepreneur wrote this article about the grueling process she went through to raise one of the largest Series A investments ever secured by a Latinx woman-led company.

If you’re going to fundraise, take my advice: get to the rejection as soon as possible. Don’t waste their time or yours. People like to court you into a no, they draw it out, and it can really drain your emotional batteries by the time you finally get there. Don’t be afraid to ask the difficult questions early on in the conversation. Start dividing the metaphorical room into people you like and don’t. After that, divide the room again into people who can write a big enough check to accomplish your goals. Now the job is to get them to like you and your business. It’s time to make friends.

Dominican-American slam poet, author and performer Elizabeth Acevedo has become the first ever writer of color to win the UK’s most prestigious children’s books award, the Carnegie medal, which has a history stretching back to 1936 and includes Arthur Ransome, CS Lewis and Neil Gaiman among its former winners. Acevedo, the daughter of Dominican immigrants, took the medal for her debut, The Poet X. A verse novel, it tells of a quiet Dominican girl, Xiomara, who joins her school’s slam poetry club in Harlem and is, according to the judges, “a searing, unflinching exploration of culture, family and faith within a truly innovative verse structure”. Xiomara “comes to life on every page and shows the reader how girls and women can learn to inhabit, and love, their own skin”.

Netflix is adapting Colombian author Gabriel Garcia Marquez's iconic "One Hundred Years of Solitude" into a series. The novel is set in the fictional "Macondo," which was inspired by Marquez's hometown in northern Colombia. "One Hundred Years of Solitude," which was originally published in Spanish in 1967, is perhaps the best known work by the Nobel prize-winning author. Marquez was also a treasure to the Colombian people. When he died at age 87 in 2014, Colombia President Juan Manuel Santos declared three days of national mourning.

A writer shares his thoughts about the term "Latinx" including the history of its use and what it means to different people.

As the biracial son of Mexican immigrants, I have, at various stages of my life, described myself as Latino, Mexican American, Hispanic, and Chicano. None of these words ever felt quite right; none of them painted the whole picture of how I see myself or how I want to be seen. I felt I had inherited a chaotic identity with too many facets; language, race, geography—which one should win out? But mestizaje tells us it is precisely this struggle, the search for a cohesive identity, that defines us as a people. The “mixedness” is not a halfway state of being, but a complete state of being unto itself. I can think of no better extension of that sentiment than “Latinx,” a word that concedes to malleability, the “x” willing to become whatever it needs to be for the person who wears it.

A fun read about the Oakland-based Puerto-Rican restaurant owned by chef Jose Ortiz that auditioned to feed pro basketball team the Golden State Warriors. It all came to be because one of the restaurant's regular customers is Marcos Mendoza, the Warriors’ executive chef, who controls the Oracle Arena's VIP areas, the 84 suites, and the entire food sector. If you're in the area, La Perla's website is here. (*Thanks to my friend Aida Zepeda for the recommendation!)

Appreciate you checking out this week’s issue. Forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the every day contributions the Latinx community is making. Some other actions you can take:

• Shop this directory we built of Latinx business owners. You can also email your info if you’d like to be added. If you’re looking to hire or purchase products or services of any kind, browse the directory and buy directly from the businesses.

• Post tweet you can post about us. If you share any of the articles from the newsletter on social media, please tag us on Twitter at @latinxcollectiv or Facebook at @thelatinxcollective.

• Feel free to submit article submissions here: thelatinxcollective@gmail.com

Cuban-American actress (and now producer!) is on the cover of Health Magazine. Gina Torres will debut a new show called Pearson on USA Network on July 17th (trailer here). The show is centered around Gina’s character Jessica Pearson and will be the sole spin-off of the show Suits (a legal drama tv series). In anticipation of such a monumental moment in her career, Health magazine sat down with Gina to discuss her path to success, dealing with mom guilt, and how the show came about. I love how Gina so fearlessly took on a new role and shared more about her early career, including her original dream of being the Afro-Cuban Bernadette Peters.

It’s your first time as a co-executive producer—what was that like? It felt natural and good. I would say the learning curve wasn’t so much having an opinion—we all have those, and because I’ve been doing this so long, I knew a lot more than I thought I did. But I had to think about finding my voice, using it, and expressing it in such a way that wasn’t personal, it was just what’s best for the show.

Pose is a TV drama spotlighting the legends, icons and ferocious house mothers of New York’s underground ball culture, a movement that first gained notice in the 1980s. Making television history, Pose features the largest cast of transgender actors in series regular roles.In particular, it celebrates Black and Latinx LGBTQ culture. Season 2 of FX's drama debuted today, June 11th.

Season 2 leaps the story ahead to 1990, and it debuts at a time in the present when attacks on LGBTQ people are on the rise and the hard-won laws meant to protect them are being threatened and dismantled, at the halfway point of a year in which nine trans women, all of them black, have been killed. The death toll in 2018, by the way, was 26, according to the Human Rights Campaign.

I love this story 😭. Literacy rates across Latin America are generally pretty high, particularly among younger generations. But it’s still common for children in remote communities to live in homes with little access to books. Luis Soriano Bohorquez is a man with a mission, a collection of books, and some donkeys. In the small town of La Gloria, he's dedicated himself to bearing books on the back of a burro so that people in remote communities, where years of armed conflict have often disrupted children’s access to education, can enjoy a donkey-powered mobile library service – the Biblioburro. Bohorquez obtained his degree in Spanish literature from a roving professor who visited his town twice a month. It was this understanding of the particular challenges faced by children in rural communities that led Bohorquez to leave his job teaching at an elementary school and hit the road, with one of his faithful donkeys, Alfa and Beto.

*Thanks so much to long-time supporter Stuart Rowe of BioMotiv for the submission!*

On June 28th, 1969, the Stonewall riots in Greenwich Village became a major catalyst in the movement for LGBTQ rights. Transgender activists Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera were among the boldest and most outspoken leaders who stood up against the ongoing police brutality and harassment that plagued the now landmark gay bar for months.

Read on to get educated on how the movement started and how it was led by the Black and Brown community.

P.S. it was recently announced that activists Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera will be honored with a public monument in Greenwich Village, NYC as part of an initiative to increase the diversity of the statues and monuments in public places around New York City. It will be paid for out of $10 million allocated for new public artworks.

Parents who differ in hue from their children rarely discuss moments like these publicly, leaving gaping holes in the understanding of family lineage, cultural history and development of self-esteem.

This mother is learning to love her skin color and help her 4 year old daughter recognize the beauty and humanity in brownness. I think it's a beautiful piece:

Her light-brown eyes locked in on me as she brushed her honey-colored locks aside with her hand. In a casual on-the-edge-of-sleep voice she cooed, “Your skin is dark. I don’t want you to touch me.” My brown Indigenous Latina body stiffened; I labored to breathe, outraged and confused. She rendered me speechless.

6) The episode above is on the longer side (20 min) but worth it. The male hosts of BuzzFeed's Pero Like recorded their first-ever therapy session. They shared personal stories and struggles and how generational trauma and learned behavior has meant it's difficult for them to open up and let people in. It's really touching.😭 The session was hosted by a therapist provided by LatinxTherapy, a podcast and a bilingual database that connects individuals with therapists and other providers nationwide. (P.S. I spotlighted LatinxTherapy in issue #3 here)

Appreciate you checking out this week’s issue. Forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the every day contributions the Latinx community is making. You can also:

• Don’t forget we built this directory of Latinx business owners. Email your info if you’d like to be added. If you’re looking to hire or purchase products or services of any kind, browse the directory and buy directly from the businesses.

• Here’s a tweet you can post about us. If you share any of the articles from the newsletter on social media, please tag us on Twitter at @latinxcollectiv or Facebook at @thelatinxcollective.

This is the definition of a LEVEL UP.

Frank Baez was a teenager when he started working as a janitor at New York University's Langone Tisch Hospital, cleaning patient rooms, bathrooms and hallways. He was encouraged by the nurses he worked with to apply to NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing so he entered an accelerated program that allowed him to graduate with a nursing degree in just 15 months. Last Monday, Baez, now 29, graduated with a nursing degree from NYU.

"I could barely speak English at the time when I started working at NYU," said Baez, who moved to New York from the Dominican Republic with his mom at age 15. "Now I reflect on it and I feel very proud of how much I accomplished."

*Thank you to the wonderful Carolina Moreno for the submission❤️*

The writer calls out five singles to keep an eye on in the coming weeks. If you don't want to click through, I linked to the 5 singles he calls out (music videos):

With the Memorial Day weekend holiday now behind us, chart watchers and music media types have begun to hypothesize and pontificate on this year's contenders for the proverbial Song of the Summer.

1) Daddy Yankee feat. Snow, "Con Calma"

2) Lunay feat. Bad Bunny and Daddy Yankee, "Soltera (Remix)"

3) Nicky Jam and Ozuna, "Te Robaré"

4) Sech featuring Darell, "Otro Trago"

5) Pitbull, Natti Natasha, and Daddy Yankee, "No Lo Trates"

Netflix will release “Stories From Our Future,” three shorts aimed at Spanish-speaking audiences inspired by fan homages to the Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones’ anthology series “Black Mirror.” They will star a host of Latinx social network luminaries offering their take on the franchise, including YouTube influencers Rudy Mancuso (who also directed and scored the series), Lele Pons and Juanpa Zurita. On June 10, Rudy, Lele and Juanpa will release all three videos on their YouTube channels simultaneously.

A story usually hidden behind a more glamorous front, "Harvest Season" probes the lives of the multigenerational Latinos, temporary laborers, and permanent residents intimately connected to the production of premium wines in the Napa and Sonoma regions of Northern California — in the midst of one of the most dramatic grape harvests in recent memory.  The film made its debut on PBS on May 13th and is available until June 12th - watch it online here!

This is a really beautiful essay I discovered via the Es Mi Cultura newsletter (I spotlighted them in issue #35). It's no secret that beauty standards favor straight hair, light skin and "European looks." It is also no secret that Latinx communities often uphold those same standards (especially in previous generations) even though they are not reflected in them. While we do need to call out people who uphold these backwards standards, we also need to celebrate those that are moving us forward. I spent a lot of time in the hair salon as a young child (not by choice) because of my so-called "pelo malo" and it was to the detriment of my natural curls (they're gone now) so I love that this writer received positive messages from her mother and grandmother about her Afro-Latinidad. Read it!😭

Just found out there is a new show called "Alternatino" - a sketch show that follows Arturo Castro (“Broad City,” “Narcos”) as he attempts to navigate life as a modern millennial Latino man – whatever that means. According to Comedy Central, it will debut on June 18th. *I heard about this at long-time subscriber Noelia de la Cruz's amazing HBO event last night*

Appreciate you checking out this week’s issue. Forward this to friends or family so they can join you in celebrating the every day contributions the Latinx community is making. You can also:

• Don’t forget we built this directory of Latinx business owners. Email your info if you’d like to be added. If you’re looking to hire or purchase products or services of any kind, browse the directory and buy directly from the businesses.

• Here’s a tweet you can post about us. If you share any of the articles from the newsletter on social media, please tag us on Twitter at @latinxcollectiv or Facebook at @thelatinxcollective.