Representation matters: LGBTQ+ Latinos deserve to be seen and celebrated onscreen

The first two weeks of October bring together Latino Heritage Month and LGBTQ+ History Month. But when Latino Heritage Month is recognized, queer people are hardly ever mentioned, and there’s a reason for that. The intersection of race, ethnicity, culture, and religion means that LGBTQ+ Latinos face a heightened level of discrimination that makes living their lives openly much harder. This makes the need for representation that much more important. 

Research from The Trevor Project describes the unique challenges that young LGBTQ+ Latinos face and how that impacts their mental health. Latino families tend to be very religious and lean more conservative. These views create a culture of heteronormativity and rigid gender constructs that we call ‘machismo’ or toxic masculinity. This creates additional struggles for LGBTQ+ people, especially those who challenge feminine and masculine constructs.

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According to The Trevor Project, 44% of LGBTQ+ Latinos have seriously considered suicide in their lives, and 16% have attempted suicide. The number was highest among transgender Latinos. 59% of the young people surveyed reported symptoms of depression, and 70% said they had experienced anxiety due to their LGBTQ+ identity.

Being in a safe and affirming home is the best way to decrease the risk of suicide and mental health issues for these young people. But the truth is, for some of these kids, that isn’t an option. A considerable amount of LGBTQ+ youth, regardless of race or ethnicity, live in homes that won’t affirm their identity. That’s why representation is so important. GLAAD highlights that representation can challenge and change harmful stereotypes. Seeing themselves in the media could give these young LGBTQ+ Latinos hope that one day, they will be safe to live their authentic lives. 

Latinos identify as LGBTQ+ more than any other racial group, and we are among the least represented. According to GLAAD, out of the nearly 1,000 LGBTQ+ characters in TV and film last year, only about 8% of them were Latino. LGBTQ+ Latinos deserve to see themselves authentically represented so that they know there is space for them.

Thankfully, there is a group of talented ground-breaking Latinos who are making space for us in media, and we relish the chance to celebrate their impact.

Julio Torres

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Comedian, writer, and actor, recognized for his unique, artistic comedy. The co-creator of Los Espookys, as well as Problemista and 2024’s breakout hit Fantasmas brings queer Latino narratives to the forefront in both English and Spanish.

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