¡Viva! Hispanic Representation in the Media

By Kayon Ferguson

Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing, celebrating the significant achievements and impact of the Latino and Hispanic communities on the nation’s culture and history. It started strong with the announcement that Colombian singer Karol G will be headlining Coachella in 2026 as the first female Hispanic artist to do so. Ever since winning the Latin Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 2018, she has shown no signs of slowing down.

Meanwhile, the global music phenomenon Bad Bunny has been consistently using his platform to champion his homeland of Puerto Rico. His historic residency held only in Puerto Rico during its traditionally low tourism month of July had a direct economic impact on the island. 

By choosing to center his performances at home rather than in Las Vegas, he highlighted the island's culture, fostering a great sense of pride and dedication among his people. His recent SNL debut and upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show have cemented him as a global superstar, and his commitment to supporting his homeland underscores the deep connection many Hispanic celebrities maintain with their roots. 

This was on full display at the Global Citizen Festival last month, where attendees were introduced to Hispanic culture as Colombian singers Camilo and Shakira performed. The atmosphere was electric during Shakira’s set as she performed her hits: She Wolf, Hips Don't Lie, Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), and Whenever, Wherever.

Shakira's performance at the festival, coupled with her recent Grammy win for Best Pop Vocal Album for Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, speaks to her ongoing impact and influence. Beyond her music, she has been dedicated for decades to advocating for global education through her Pies Descalzos Foundation, embodying the spirit of giving back and using her fame for global good.

The impact of artists like Bad Bunny, Karol G, Shakira, and figures like Sofia Vergara extends far beyond entertainment. Their success serves as an inspiration for young Latinos, showing them that their culture, language, and heritage are something they should take great pride in. They are not just making great art; they are fundamentally reshaping the global cultural landscape and celebrating the vast spectrum and vibrancy of the Hispanic experience.