By Martina Vásquez Alejandra (Aleja) León was my childhood babysitter, but now she is much more than that. Ever since I can remember, I’ve admired her ability to thrive, her commitment, her ambition, and above all, her perseverance: these are all traits of hers that are visible from the outside. But I’ve always known there…
Released in 1979, Boulevard Nights is a film centered on two characters played by Richard Yniguez (Raymond), and Danny De La Paz (Chuco). The story focuses on Raymond and Chuco, two brothers living in East Los Angeles who navigate adolescence and young adulthood whilst being surrounded by temptation along with local street gangs. Older brother…
HARLINGEN, Tx.—L.A.-based Mexican-American musician MONOGEM, also known as Jen Hirsh, grew up in a family that not only loved music but celebrated it. Specifically, Hirsh’s abuelita would play the timeless bolero track “Bésame Mucho” by Consuelo Velázquez on repeat throughout the house. “I have the most beautiful memories of my abuelita singing and admiring the…
On the cusp of a new year, Latinitas has debuted a new mission that beautifully reflects the organization’s growth and direction. The new mission statement is “To empower girls and their communities through culturally relevant education” and touches on the key aspects that set Latinitas apart; their culture, and curriculum which go beyond helping their…
I have to admit, when I found out I would be reviewing Selena’s first real album release since her passing in 1995, I didn’t have high hopes. Personally, I’ve always found using someone’s voice or likeness after they’ve passed to be in distaste. It makes me uncomfortable, and I often viewed it as a cash…
This title may come as a surprise to you considering that Latinos have historically been underrepresented in the Tech industry. This is something Latinitas has always taken to heart. Empowering our students to change the disappointing statistic that only 2% of Latinas work in the Tech field through our programs and conferences. However, according to…
By Dana Garibaldi AUSTIN, Tx—At this year’s Texas Tribune Festival, investigative reporter Jean Guerrero and law professor Cristina Rodríguez discussed the current and controversial immigration policies of the Trump administration, policies which have affected thousands of members of the Latinx community including the attempt to end Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Including what seems…
By Natasha Ford AUSTIN, Tx.—In Isabel Ibañez’s debut novel, “Woven in Moonlight,” she weaves a magical story about friendship, romance, rebellion and finding yourself. She uses Bolivian history, politics and culture to create a lush backdrop for the world her characters live in. Ibañez uses her parents’ history in Bolivia to help her craft the…
(Danny Burgos is on the far right.) Danny Burgos has done it all; On Your Feet, West Side Story, and now he’s portraying the iconic Santiago in the Broadway National Tour of Moulin Rouge! The Musical. Later this week, Burgos will make his debut as Santiago in Austin at Bass Concert Hall, but a few…
