It’s the year 2022 and we are still out here having conversations on colorism within the Latinx community, and what it means to be Afro-Latinx. I’m so tired y’all. I’m exhausted. And I’m worn out! Now does that mean I’m going to stop representing for my culture? NOT AT ALL. But I refuse to beg people to see us, to acknowledge us, and to give us a seat at the table.
I was recently at an event here in Phoenix and as always I was the only Afro-Latinx in a room full of Latinos (1st red flag.) On the surface level, it seemed really good because we were all supporting one another. And you know, diversity and inclusion. But it wasn’t. Someone actually asked me what made me different? As I was talking about some of my lived experiences, they proceeded to laugh (2nd red flag.) Yes, laugh and say “well I’m glad I never have to go through anything like that.” As I stood there annoyed all I could think to myself was “why did I want to be in this room?”
To be honest, I’m tired of having these conversations with people who already know the answers, but don’t care. Because as he pointed out they never have to go through anything like that. Meanwhile, we have to prove ourselves.
I remember when I was in high school and my feelings would get hurt if I was excluded from something my friends were doing. My mom would always say, “why do you want to be where you aren’t wanted?” Because I wanted to belong and I wanted to feel like I was a part of something.
Afro-Latinx people deserve a seat at the table, we shouldn’t have to ask for it
Every Black History Month and every Hispanic Heritage Month we are out here begging people to include us in the conversation. But why?
I’m tired of seeing Latinx events on social media and asking where are the Black Latinx people. Cause you know what? We are everywhere! But someone didn’t care enough to do the work to include us. And it’s getting old now. They can’t claim ignorance anymore.
Go where you are wanted. Go where you are celebrated.
I’m no longer asking to be included in these conversations or be invited to these events within the community because I’m unapologetically taking up space. Instead of asking why they are not including us? I’m shifting my focus to those who are always doing the work. I will continue to use my voice and platforms to amplify and uplift other afro-Latinx creators, activists, educators, etc.
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