Whether you’re constantly protesting and mobilizing or you commit to small actions that add up, being an activist can look different for everyone. Latina activists tend to be very passionate, whether they’re going big or small, and they’re at the forefront of many different causes in the U.S. Are you one of them? Here are the top 8 things Latina activists consistently do in any way they can:
Latina activists amplify marginalized voices
Photo by Clay Banks on UnsplashThe main thing Latina activists do is prioritize amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, indigenous peoples, and people of color. Latina activists build their platforms and they use them to raise awareness and bring attention to programs, initiatives, and campaigns that focus on intersectionality, inclusivity, and representation. Diverse voices should be heard and valued, that’s the motto they live by.
They advocate for gender equality
Photo by Connie France on Wikimedia Commons
Latina activists tend to be fierce advocates for gender equality and women's rights. They challenge patriarchal norms, advocate for reproductive rights, fight against gender-based violence, and work towards closing the gender pay gap, which is still as prevalent as ever. They focus a lot on empowering women and girls to pursue education, leadership roles, and opportunities for economic empowerment. Whether that’s in their inner circle or at a larger scale, every effort makes a difference for the next generation.
They fight for immigrant rights
Photo by Pax Ahimsa Gethen on Wikimedia Commons
Many Latina activists in the U.S. are immigrants themselves or have parents who are, so they have an understanding of the immigrant experience. As a result, they often turn to activism, advocating for immigrant rights and comprehensive immigration reform. The goal is to help change the immigrant experience and avoid the pain that often comes with it. Latina activists who focus on immigrant rights support the community, defend DACA recipients, fight against family separations, and call for humane and just immigration policies. They also raise awareness about the contributions of immigrants and promote inclusivity and compassion.
They address racial injustice
Latina activists actively address racial injustice and advocate for racial equity and anti-racism. These are issues that they also have experience with and that affect them as much as they affect other people of color. As a result of their experiences, many Latinas develop a fire to challenge systemic racism, advocate for police reform, and promote racial healing and solidarity among diverse communities. A more just and inclusive society is something they actively work towards, not just for this generation, but also for the ones to come.
Latina activists engage in political activism
Photo by Anya Juárez Tenorio on Pexels
While this isn’t a focus for all Latina activists, many of them do engage in political activism by mobilizing voters, supporting candidates who champion social justice, and advocating for policies that promote equity and fairness. They also participate in marches, protests, and advocacy campaigns to influence policy decisions and hold elected officials accountable to their communities. A big part of making a change is changing the system, so many Latinas actively focus on that with the help and the power of the people.
They promote LGBTQ+ rights
Trans Justice Micah Bazant’s vivid watercolor ©2016 tribute to trans Latina activist Isa Noyola
Photo by Heidi De Vries on Flickr
Another thing Latina activists do well is be strong allies and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion. They support LGBTQ+ people across the board, advocate for marriage equality, fight against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and promote safe and inclusive spaces for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. Latina activists also use their platforms to amplify LGBTQ+ stories and voices.
They empower and educate youth
Photo by Keira Burton on Pexels
Latina activists also focus consistently on educating the youth and encouraging solid values to the future leaders of tomorrow. Whether that’s at a small scale through their own children or at a larger scale by working with organizations that offer resources, Latina activists provide mentorship and opportunities for civic engagement. They inspire young people to use their voices, advocate for their communities, and become agents of positive change in their own right and at their own scale.
They use art and culture to inspire social change
Photo by Erika Huertas on Pexels
Last but not least, Latina activists harness the power of art, culture, and storytelling to inspire activism and promote social change. Those with creative, artistic souls use music, dance, visual arts, literature, and digital media to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and ignite conversations about important social issues. The simple act of recommending a book or movie that can help others understand an important issue or different perspective can open someone’s eyes and ignite their interest in taking action.
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