Emma from ‘Vida’ STARZ drama series
As a Latina, born and raised in Chicago, I grew up watching Dawson’s Creek, Roswell, That 70’s Show, and Gilmore Girls. These shows never portrayed brown folks. In the rare case that they did— you better believe they had an over-the-top accent, and were stereotypical af. One thing was for sure: I never really saw anyone on TV that represented me.
This all changed in 2018 (only took 20 years, but whose counting?) when I stumbled across the show “Vida” on STARZ. Vida is a drama series created by Tania Saracho. It tells the story of Emma and Lyn, two Mexican-American sisters from East LA. Having spent some time apart, they are brought back together when a family member passes away. When they return to their old stomping grounds, they have no choice but to open up past family drama, face some identity issues, as well as uncover some deep family secrets.
5 seconds into the credits, I was hooked. Almost the entire cast is Latinx. The show is modern and colorful, and feels so close to home with the Spanglish and bomb music — all by Latinx artists of course.
I felt in community with one of the sisters, Emma. Emma is the responsible one of the two. She’s radiant, brilliant, wears the most Parisian inspired, ‘effortlessly chic’ outfits, and her personality is ice cold. She works a corporate job in Chicago, and has made a name for herself. To top things off, she speaks perfect Spanish. She’s a woke millennial, and the result the of the American Dream of the 90’s. Although she has her own issues(who doesn’t?), Emma is simply a bad ass.
Emma also breaks huge boundaries on screen when being bullied over her sexuality, which she chooses not to identify in one of the episodes. Emma’s quick-witted response is current, bold and refreshing:
I’m sorry I don’t abide by your dated categories of queerness. I’m sorry that you think I’m confused or indecisive because I have a wide range of what I can get off to — Emma
This political, yet relatable dialogue is just one example of why we all need more series like Vida in our lives. We need more authentic content, showcasing actual latinx experiences (with actual latinx actors). I’m glad that the Latinx community will have the option of watching a show they can actually relate to. Most importantly, they will be able to see POC like themselves on screen. Bravo, Tania and STARZ! for adding this show, keeping it for 3 seasons, and allowing Latinx artists and experiences to take up space.
