I am no stranger to the questions or “Are you sure you’re Mexican?” or “if you’re Latina, how are you black?” I anticipate these questions because I know that they’re coming. My name is Thalia and I am from San Diego, California. I am Mexican and Afro-Panamanian and identify as Afro-Latina. Growing up, I had…
I Am Black and, Yes! I Speak Spanish. – Marcela Bermudez
How are you Black and speak Spanish? “Honduras? Is that in Mexico?” “I didn’t know that Black people speak Spanish” If I were to get a dollar each time, I heard any of those phrases or questions, I would be extra rica con dinero right now. These questions and comments that I have heard all…
Afro-Latinas Stand Up – Amy Rodriguez
Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, I never had a reference for an “AfroLatina”. You were either black or you were of Latin descent.That was just the way it was. I grew up being Latina en la casa, and Black in the streets. My mother being the only one in her family who migrated…
Cleanse your Circle & Preserve your Space – Jenay Wright
Play that Sade sis! Blast that India Arie! Yes, even louder and continue to alleviate your soul and protect your vibe. Don’t ever stop your healing, individual growth, and the flourishment that has been progressing over time. I see you Queen and I recognize your ability to improve all who you are. You deserve that…
To Be Black, Beautiful, and Costa Rican – Shantel Miller
Both my parents were born and raised in the beautiful country of Costa Rica. (I love saying that lol. Fun fact about Costa Rica. Costa Rica has the largest Jamaican diaspora after Cuba and Panama and its development as a nation is witness to this contribution. Since 1850, fishermen of Afro-Caribbean origin began to…
Sis, Self – Care isn’t Selfish it’s Essential – Jenay Wright
Sis! I want you to breathe in and exhale. Through every release of your breathe I want you to let go of any stress, triggers, tribulations, anything else that is consuming all of your energy. At this moment it is about you and nobody else. Whether you are a mum, executive assistant, caretaker, therapist, or…
A Letter to White Latinx and those who Look Good on Television – Faye Tinsley
Dear White Latinx and the passive complicit actors and actresses who love saying N****r to appeal to their white counterparts. How are things? Has your race come into question lately? Do the same white people who tell you not to act like Negros still give you the same treatment? Or are you capitalizing off the…
Unapologetically, embodying my Afro-Colombian & Dominican Identity — Daviana Mercedes
Growing up I always knew I looked different, from the texture of my hair to the color of my skin. The intersection of Latinx and Black identities run deep, yet Latinas who look like me aren’t front and center in popular media. As a woman who proudly identifies as an Afro-Latina, I’m here to say…
What are YOU? I am more than just an Afro Latina!—Tracey Phipps
“What are you?” That’s a common question I normally get asked. I’ve also heard “I knew you were mixed with something but didn’t want to ask,” or “there’s something different about you.” To some people this is offensive but I appreciate the curiosity. I’m flattered now when people assume I am an exotic creation handcrafted…
“Dear America” A Letter to America from an Afro- Latina – Franchesca Chavez
Dear America, I’m an Afro-Latina born and raised in a country I’ve loved, embraced, and cherished – yet in so many ways, it has not responded the same way to me. While I’ve tried to fit into a mold that would make it easier for people to understand who I am, I’ve often felt…
