The Hypersexualization of Latinas in Media

Written & Styled by: Vivian Rodriguez

Photographed by: Rishita Nannapaneni

Models: Vivian Rodriguez, Elisa Peters, Maricela Reyes, and Natalia Cordero

Latine/o/a/x Heritage month is coming to an end soon, making this the perfect time to discuss the hypersexualization of Latinas in media.

Latinas in TV, film, and other forms of media often have an exaggerated, stereotypical reputation. Latinas in the media are often seen as “exotic,” tempered, very curvy with a small waist and large breasts, showing more cleavage than other characters and usually wearing fitted clothing. These are things that exacerbate the sexualization of Latinas. There is nothing wrong with a confident Latina who decides to show their curves, but that shouldn't be the only type of Latina we see on our screens. 

Author Maria Jimenez Moya mentioned in her article with The Daily Free Press, the movie and television industry in America is often influenced by white men who portray ethnic minorities from a white point of view. Specifically, Latina women in the American mainstream media are exoticized, glamorized, as well as hypersexualized. For example, actress Sofia Vergara’s portrayal of Gloria in Modern Family is completely based upon untrue and offensive stereotypes. Gloria is a Latina trophy wife who typically wears high heels, sexualized clothing, and is ill-tempered (Moya, 2022). The same article by The Daily Free Press also talks about how the Spanish language has been sexualized for Latinas. If a Latina has an accent, it's all of a sudden very “sexy.”For example, the Spanish words for mom and dad (“Papi and Mami”)  are commonly used in a sexual context or as a sexual compliment. 

Ultimately, this portrayal of Latinas in the media is toxic. Latina women, such as myself, often feel we have to fit into this “type” of woman. When you grow up and only see Latinas being praised for their bodies, then you begin to question if you should fit into this body type of Latina women you see in said media. The lack of accurate representation can lead younger Latina girls to look up to these types of “sexy” Latinas we see in the media and make them feel like their body is all they can be admired for. The hypersexualization of Latinas can also contribute to racism, an increase in sexual harassment/assault, cultural appropriation, and the fetishization of Latinas.

Media overall has a huge impact and influence on people. For that reason, there is room for improvement in terms of representation in this industry. There need to be roles of Latinas being played as common people, rather than being portrayed as these inaccurate stereotypes. It can be empowering to see successful Latina women in TV/film, especially in a predominantly white industry. Still, along with that, we want to see more representation outside of the stereotypes that people place upon us. Latinas are far more than a sex symbol and should be portrayed as such.