CALÓ News' 2024 “Latinas Who Inspire”

International Women's Day is marked annually on March 8th to acknowledge the struggles and achievements of women worldwide. This day is a reminder of the progress that women have made and the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality. Latinas, in particular, have a unique story to tell about their journey towards equality and the resilience they have shown along the way.

Despite the progress that Latinas have made, there is still much work to be done to achieve gender equality. Latina women still face significant challenges including discrimination, economic inequality and limited access to education and healthcare. However, Latinas have shown time and time again that they are not afraid to face these challenges head-on and fight for their rights.

Latinas have been making strides in various fields, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. As we celebrate International Women's Day, it is essential to recognize the resilience and achievements of Latinas. This year we asked CALÓ News readers and staff to nominate a Latina who “inspires” them for International Women’s Day 2024.

The following women nominated have made significant contributions to their communities and continue to make an impact as we work towards a more equitable and just world for all.

Constanza Eliana Chinea is an independent journalist and producer who reports on a wide range of topics, including politics, culture, identity and social justice issues. She is at the forefront of progressive journalism and has recently launched her podcast, "Political Pendejadas." In today's media landscape, where many newsrooms are often reluctant to speak up on sensitive global issues, Chinea’s voice is a breath of fresh air. Her unique style of advocacy and accountability journalism is unapologetically bold and forthright. 

Chinea has previously authored articles for the LA Times' De Los section, which highlight the struggles of indigenous communities to preserve their languages. She also wrote for Knock LA on how women of color have been at the front lines of the Hollywood strike. Her dedication to comprehensive reporting, precision, and honesty is aptly reflected in her range of work. One of her earliest pieces of video journalism was for Latino Rebels in 2022, where she explored the controversy surrounding Christie's Auction House's sale of Taíno artifacts.

Her media portfolio serves as a shining example of her unwavering commitment to highlighting the voices of marginalized communities and empowering other women. To follow her work you can sign up for her newsletter or follow her on social media at @eliana.chinea 

Rachael Rodriguez, otherwise known by her stage name “Maria Chingona” is a SoCal-based Artistic Director and musician. Originally from Indiana, Maria studied violin as a child and switched to Vihuela. Learning Mariachi music in her youth propelled her to where she is now, performing all over the country. Her love of music eventually brought her to Los Angeles where she is part of the Grammy Award-winning all-women band, Mariachi Divas. 

Maria Chingona draws inspiration from Mariachi Divas and Metalachi. She has come full circle after opening for the band Metalachi and has backed up renowned performers like Paquita La Del Barrio and Shaila Durcal with the Mariachi Divas. Although she is passionate about all types of music, Maria La Chingona has a deep love of Cumbia. She became one of the co-founders for CUMBIAFEST, the monthly Cumbia night in Long Beach that features local talent. CUMBIAFEST provides a safe space where members of the queer community can come and dance to their heart's content, and be themselves. Maria Chingona's team consists mostly of queer and femme performers who share her passion for Cumbia and are committed to bringing it to the streets of Long Beach. You can follow her work on Instagram at mariachingona.la 

Evelyn Avila is a first-generation Mexican American woman, born & raised in Long Beach. In 2023 Avila launched the Long Beach Walking Club, which has grown from a handful of participants taking weekly walks to now dozens of regulars who meet up to socialize, catch up, and get their steps on. The club was originally intended to encourage women to “put themselves out there” and build community, especially in a city where meeting people can sometimes feel daunting.

The LBWC is both a social hub for women and a way to promote community health and wellness. When Avila first thought of the idea she said it felt like she was being a “mitotera,” which is a Spanish word with a negative connotation for being nosey or rowdy. However, it became quickly apparent that women in the area were seeking opportunities to connect and interact with other women in their community. They wanted a space where they could share experiences, exchange ideas, and form meaningful relationships with other like-minded women. It was evident that there was a growing need for a platform or group that would allow women to come together and engage in activities, events, and discussions that would help them grow and thrive personally and professionally.

According to Avila, The Long Beach Walking Club has been a source of healing for her, as she has previously struggled to find a community where she felt like she belonged. Being part of a group of women who are dedicated to building a supportive and welcoming community has allowed her to grow and develop in ways she never thought possible. Through a variety of events and activities, the LBWC offers members a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, improve their physical and mental health, and give back to the community. You can join them for a walk or follow them at @longbeachwalkingclub 

Yesika Salgado is a Los Angeles-born Salvadoran writer/performer and author. A self-described “Fat Activist” and poet, Salgado is a leading voice in performance poetry spaces. She is a two-time National Poetry Slam finalist, Long Beach Slam Champion, and recipient of the 2020 International Latino Book Award in Poetry. Her work has been taught at various universities in the nation and continues to gain traction as a staple of modern poetry taught in schools. 

Salgado has built a substantial online audience on various social media platforms by sharing her poetry and striving to make it accessible to everyone in everyday situations. Her total following exceeds 200,000 readers. She co-founded Chingona Fire, a poetry collective that organized and hosted poetry events in Los Angeles for Women and Nonbinary individuals of color. She has been a member of Da Poetry Lounge's production staff for a long time, which is the country's most enduring weekly poetry venue. 

Salgado's literary works offer a profound insight into her life as a young Salvadoran-American girl, growing up in the bustling city of Los Angeles. Her performances are heavily influenced by her personal experiences and encounters. Salgado's work is a captivating reflection of the struggles she faced, including gentrification, poverty, and the challenges of navigating relationships. Her writing is both poignant and thought-provoking, and she masterfully captures the complex emotions that come with growing up in a city that is constantly changing. Salgado's work is a true testament to her talent and resilience, and she is undoubtedly deserving of recognition this International Women's Day. You can follow her on Instagram at @yesikastarr