There I was, just scrolling through Facebook, when I discovered my hometown library, a sanctuary of my youth, at the center of a book-banning controversy. According to the Victoria Advocate, one group of parents did not appreciate sexual situations and queer portrayals in the city’s public library books.
When I was little, it seemed like my path of love was clear as a Latina woman: meet a Hispanic Catholic guy, date him for about two years (but stay a virgin, of course), then marry and have a lot of kids. The problem with the supposed “straight and narrow” path happens when you venture away from it.
‘In The Heights’ recently hit theaters and HBO Max, and I found it to be pure joy. For one, it perfectly encapsulates the feelings of being pulled in two directions and finding where you belong. For all of you preparing for your first year of college, current students, and alumni, Nina’s story can be incredibly relatable.
I love the word Latinx. But if you’ve participated in “Hispanic” social media over the last few years, there are people who absolutely. Hate. It.
Seriously though, I am in awe of Spanish speakers. The language is beautiful and chaotic to my English ears, and after years of classes on the subject, I have a deep respect for (and jealousy of) those who learn Spanish at any point in their lifetime. But being Latinx isn’t bingo; you don’t need to cover the “right” squares to win.