As this summer’s entertainment lineup promises a potentially groundbreaking era for Latino representation in mainstream media, propelled by successful releases like The Last of Us and Wednesday, and poised for the debuts of highly anticipated titles such as Flamin’ Hot and the groundbreaking Blue Beetle (hailed as “the inaugural superhero film directed by, written by, and starring Latinos”), a collective voice emerges from 27 dedicated Latino advocacy groups. In an open letter, they passionately express the need for their narratives to be recognized and celebrated.
Despite witnessing positive shifts in recent times, these organizations stress that the repercussions of years of marginalization and erasure from the screen continue to linger. “We harbored hopes that our long-awaited cultural resurgence had finally dawned,” the open letter reads, reflecting the aspirations of these advocacy groups, which have tirelessly striven for authentic Latino representation within the media landscape.
The current challenge arises from a unique situation where actors and writers cannot promote their newly released projects amidst contractual disputes between their guilds and industry stakeholders. Fearing these vital works may be overshadowed and lose their cultural significance, these advocacy groups, which have worked extensively within the industry and the community, join forces to issue an unprecedented joint appeal: #SupportLatinoCreatives.
The coalition asserts that the moment is ripe to stand in solidarity with these creatives, recognizing their contributions and supporting their endeavors during a critical juncture. This comes alongside their endorsement of the more significant battle for equitable treatment and just compensation. Notably, the strikes unfolding in the industry hold a disproportionate impact on artists belonging to historically underrepresented communities.
The open letter eloquently conveys a resounding message:
“Stories transcend mere entertainment; they wield the power to catalyze societal transformation, paving the path toward a more equitable and just world, especially for those who have long been marginalized and underrepresented. Actors, writers, and directors form the bedrock of this transformative work. As we witness their artistic prowess, we’re reminded that their narratives mold perceptions of our communities, both near and far.”
The advocacy groups have championed the cause of authentic Latino representation across various fronts:
We are cultivating creative talent development initiatives and executive programs to nurture aspiring creators and usher in a new wave of industry leaders.
Establishing dedicated platforms to celebrate and honor Latino excellence in media, recognizing works that uplift and inspire.
We are collaborating as cultural experts with studios, networks, and producers to ensure genuine, multifaceted portrayals of Latino experiences.
They are advocating for adequate resources for writers, directors, and talent, dismantling barriers that obstruct their stories from coming to life.
Challenging harmful stereotypes within existing narratives and holding studio leadership accountable for responsible, creative decisions.
While significant progress has been achieved, the path ahead remains long. The advocacy groups acknowledge the potential of this summer to be a turning point, marked by the resurgence of beloved shows, the debut of innovative series, and the landmark release of the first-ever Latino-directed, written, and starred superhero film. This juncture, however, coincides with a pivotal moment in the media industry—a dual strike that disproportionately impacts artists from historically marginalized communities.
The letter underscores unwavering support for actors and writers in pursuing equitable agreements safeguarding their livelihoods. Furthermore, recognizing the expansive influence of the burgeoning Latino demographic on global culture, the advocacy groups emphasize their commitment to recognizing and celebrating the artistic brilliance that reflects and enriches their community on screen.
In a poignant appeal to action, the open letter urges collective engagement:
“To secure a brighter future for current and upcoming generations of Latinos, we must not falter in our progress. We extend a heartfelt invitation to join us in amplifying the creative achievements of countless Latino artists working tirelessly to craft impactful works. Our stories, inherently universal, yearn to be shared. Together, we stand united in advocating for an industry that embraces equity and inclusivity and reveres and honors both our storytellers and their narratives.”
Signed,
Acevedo Foundation
Alliance of Latinx Executives
Avenida Productions
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI)
Friends of the National Museum of the American Latino
Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR)
Hispanic Coalition of Small Business (HCSB)
Hispanic Federation
Hispanic Heritage Foundation
LA Collab
Latin Heat
Latino Community Foundation
Latino Film Institute
Latino Filmmakers Network
Latino Slant
LTX Connect
Luz Media
National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP)
National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts
National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC)
New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF)
Nosotros
Poderistas
The Latinx House
UnidosUS
Voto Latino
We Are All Human
