La Borinqueña: A Superhero We Need Today and Beyond
Session details:
Championing Diversity, Advocacy, and Social Justice in Storytelling
Introduction
I am honored to submit this proposal for a keynote address focused on the transformative power of Latino representation in mainstream media, using the creation and impact of my graphic novel series, La Borinqueña, as a catalyst for discussion. This keynote will highlight the intersection of advocacy, storytelling, and social justice, while addressing the critical underrepresentation of Latinos in Hollywood and publishing. With Latinos now comprising 20% of the U.S. population, yet remaining marginalized in creative industries, this conversation is both timely and necessary for conference organizers and media professionals committed to shaping a more inclusive future.
Background: The Birth of La Borinqueña
The genesis of La Borinqueña began in 2016, in response to the economic and environmental crises facing Puerto Rico—a U.S. territory burdened by over $70 billion in debt and the aftermath of the federal tax code changes that decimated local manufacturing. My goal was to create a superhero whose stories would illuminate Puerto Rico’s complex relationship with the United States and the social, political, and ecological challenges confronting its people. The character’s debut at the National Puerto Rican Day Parade quickly resonated with audiences, and subsequent publications addressed issues such as environmental racism and the humanitarian crisis brought on by austerity measures.
Impact: Education, Social Justice, and Advocacy
La Borinqueña has evolved into a powerful educational tool, earning placement in the Smithsonian’s permanent collection and being incorporated into curricula at leading academic institutions nationwide. Through school visits and collaborations, the series has sparked honest discussions about colonialism, climate change, and identity, inspiring both students and scholars to engage with Puerto Rico’s realities. Our philanthropic initiatives, including the La Borinqueña Grant Awards, have further extended the series’ impact, supporting relief and recovery efforts across the island and earning recognition such as the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award.
Latino Representation: A Stark Disparity
Despite these achievements, the broader media landscape reveals a stark disparity. Latinos occupy only 3–8% of key creative roles in Hollywood and constitute just 8% of the publishing workforce—primarily in service positions. This is alarmingly disproportionate, considering Latinos represent one-fifth of the U.S. population. The USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative reports that out of 62,224 speaking characters in popular films, only 5.5% were Latino. This underrepresentation persists despite the undeniable influence of Latino audiences and creators.
Economic Power: Contrasting GDP and Media Presence
The disconnect between Latino economic power and media visibility is profound. According to the Latino Donor Collaborative, the U.S. Latino GDP stands at an astounding $4.1 trillion—surpassing the economies of entire countries. Yet, this economic might is rarely reflected in the stories told by Hollywood or the publishing industry, limiting both cultural understanding and commercial opportunity.
Call to Action: Elevating Latino Voices
It is imperative that media professionals and conference leaders champion greater Latino participation in storytelling. By supporting diverse creators and amplifying underrepresented voices, we can reshape mainstream narratives to reflect the true fabric of American society. La Borinqueña demonstrates how authentic, advocacy-driven stories can educate, inspire, and mobilize audiences—serving as a blueprint for progress.
Conclusion: Toward an Inclusive Media Landscape
This keynote will offer actionable strategies and a powerful vision for a media landscape where Latino stories are not only present but celebrated. Together, we can unlock the full potential of diversity, ensuring that the transformative power of storytelling is accessible to all, and that every voice is heard.
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https://america.cgtn.com/2025/07/12/full-frame-the-power-of-representation
