By Viviana Morales

“People think of Latina women as being fiery and fierce, which is usually true,” actress Zoe Saldaña said. “But I think the quality that so many Latinas possess is strength. I’m very proud to have Latin blood.”

Annually in the United States, many Latinos and Hispanics come together to celebrate their cultures during Hispanic Heritage Month, lasting from September 15 to October 15. The month-long event celebrates people from the Caribbean, Mexico, Spain, and Central and South America. Celebrations often include music festivals, parades, and art exhibits, such as the October 5 Latino Heritage Parade and Festival which ends at Pasadena City Hall. 

Throughout the years, many Latinos have become inspiring stars, spokespersons, and politicians. Exceptional singers like Mexican artist Selena Quintallia and Chilean actor Pedro Pascal have widened the representation in the entertainment industry for Hispanics. These people represent just two of thousands of  Latinos who have changed the lives and stereotypes of Latinos, so let’s take a look at some influential people who are Hispanic. 

In the dance community, ballerina Evelyn Cisneros paved the way for Hispanics to pursue careers in the department of dance. Cisneros is the first Mexican-American prima ballerina in the United States, gaining success despite many acts of discrimination in her studio class in San Francisco. She had to face being the only person of color in her class, along with many not believing in her abilities to become a great dancer. 

Cisneros has performed as a prima ballerina in ballets such as “The Tempest” and “Swan Lake,” while also performing for President Ronald Reagan in the White House. Now, Cisneros is the director of Frederick Quinney Lawson Ballet West Academy, where she teaches ballet to students and shares her experiences. 

Taking a different approach within the entertainment industry, Lin Manuel Miranda, a Puerto Rican powerhouse has been increasingly influential in the industry with his acting, composing, and directing.. Miranda was inspired by the Broadway musical “Les Miserables” when he was seven years old, which sparked his interest in musical theater. 

From the age of seven, Miranda began to act in musicals, sing and compose songs, and more. He has worked on major productions such as Disney’s “Encanto,” “Hamilton,” and Disney’s “Moana.” Miranda is still very active in his career and even is currently working on “Moana 2,” and the live version of Disney’s “Lilo and Stitch.” 

Miranda follows in the footsteps of other Latin musicians such as Mexican singer Ritchie Valens, who became the first Latino rock and roll star. His electric guitar playing in high school got him the attention of Delf-Fi Records, which had sessions at Gold Star Recording Studios, that allowed Valens to make and produce hits. 

Songs like “Donna” and “La Bamba” still play in Hispanic households all over the world today. Unfortunately, his stardom was cut short, when at just 17 years old Ritchie Valens died in a plane crash in Iowa. 

Outside of the entertainment industry, Hispanics are making waves as well. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is a Puerto Rican politician for the Democratic Party working alongside politicians like Bernie Sanders and President Joe Biden. Already a hit within the Latino community, AOC was sworn in as a senator in January of 2019, becoming the youngest woman and Latina to serve in the United States Congress. 

One of AOC’s biggest projects while serving in Congress was the Green New Deal, which allowed many to have the opportunity to attain jobs, make changes in response to climate change, fight economic inequality, etc. Not only has she greatly expanded on the deal, but she has also inspired others to follow in her footsteps. 

Hispanic Heritage Month was made to not only honor inspiring Latin Americans such as these inspiring people mentioned, but also to bring pride into the younger Hispanic community. This celebratory month gives Hispanics the space to show pride in their culture and allows those of different cultures to enjoy this influential part of our diverse nation.