Editors' Picks: Icons and trailblazers in the Latinx Community

"Without a doubt, Selena was a performer who was recognized for not only her voice, but also her personality. Even after death, the Queen of Tejano reigns as an influence for artists such as Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez and Becky G. Then and now, Selena's music continues to bring people from various backgrounds together."

Brandon Peña, editor-in-chief

"Chavez stands along side Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Ghandi as one of the greatest civil rights leaders of all time due to their conviction in the practice of nonviolent protest. Such a philosophy, while having its detractors, has proven to change the fate of the entire world, and Chavez was indeed great proof of that."

Troylon Griffin II, co-managing editor

"I am not a big sports person, but I remember when I was in highschool finding out that the 2012 Olympic bronze medalist in women's boxing was an alumni from our school. That was the first time I had really felt that pride you get when you find out somebody great went to the same school as you. She competed the first year that women's boxing was part of the Olympics and soon became one of the faces of both Covergirl and Coca Cola. All this at 5'3!"

Alyssa Shotwell, online editor

"He is considered one of significant authors of the 20th century and one of the best Spanish writers of all times. His novels, which focus on magic realism, are the perfect escape from the real world."

Katherine Rodriguez, audience engagement editor

"Dr. Ellen Ochoa was the first Hispanic female astronaut to travel into space. She also was the first director of Johnson Space Center and its second female director overall. Her achievements broke glass ceilings and opened up a world of possibilities for women and Hispanics in STEM."

Brandon Peña, editor-in-chief

"Huerta was practically Chavez's partner and other half in terms of their achievements and she deserves as much, maybe even more, credit for her contributions to civil rights. Not to mention, Barack Obama and his supporters, and anyone a fan of the phrase 'Yes we can' owe her a great debt. (Sí se puede!)"

Troylon Griffin II, co-managing editor

"Nearly every role that Thompson has preformed has helped established spaces for women of color in scifi/fantasy. These are in works like 'Thor: Ragnarok,' 'Westworld,' 'Annihilation,' 'Dirty Computer,' '666 Park Avenue' and 'Sorry to Bother You.' In all of these roles, she is an independent character that doesn't fall into any troupe that a person of color would often get put in when they do exist in this genre. There is something very powerful about seeing yourself represented in the present, but I think even more so projected in the future and our dreams. Being a biracial, bisexual afro-latina gives so many people the opportunity to envision themselves in in popular fiction."

Alyssa Shotwell, online editor

"There's no need to say much about Jorge Ramos. He's simply one of the best Hispanic journalists of all times."

Katherine Rodriguez, audience engagement editor

"Sonia Sotomayor made history in 2009 by becoming the first Hispanic Supreme Court justice. Being one of the justices on the highest court in our government is beyond noteworthy. Her position on the Supreme Court means that Hispanics in the United States matter and their voices should be heard."

Brandon Peña, editor-in-chief

"I feel like everyone knows who this guy is by now, but I don't think everyone totally understands how important of a figure he is. As an artist he not only made 'Hamilton: An American Musical,' -yes that Hamilton-, but also created music for 'Moana,' and 'Star Wars.' Most importantly though, he uses his platform to help people of color 'get their shot' in creative spaces that they might not normally get a chance to. A big portion of his activism is dedicated to helping get Puerto Rico debt relief, disaster relief after Hurricane Maria and getting young people to be active citizens by working with non-partisan groups that encourage people to vote.
.... This isn't why I chose him, but if you follow him on Twitter you get unique and beautifully crafted pep talks/poems every freaking day. You're welcome in advanced."

Alyssa Shotwell, online editor

"She is one of the greatest artist of the twentieth century, and is of absolute icon status in both feminist and hispanic circles. As a fan of surreal art, it's great that one of its greatest innovators is a hispanic woman. Despite her tragic story, she will live on powerfully and positively through her amazing art."

Troylon Griffin II, co-managing editor

"Frida is a must pick when it comes to Latinx icons. She challenged gender norms in her dress and by being an artist while still making her culture a central part of her life and identity. The obstacles she overcame as a woman of color makes the powerful work that she did to that much more awesome."

Alyssa Shotwell, online editor