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Many of our favorite latin icons are known worldwide for their talent, and while they are remembered and celebrated all year round, it’s important to recognize their impact among the LGBTQ community.
From living their truth and authentical selves, to openly sharing their emotions in their music and art, these entertainers and artists have empowered generations over the years.
Selena Quintanilla
The impact of Selena Quintanilla can be seen everywhere. With new generations of artists inspired by her talent and younger fans wanting to know more about her story. The Queen of Tejano music is celebrated and loved for her cultural contribution, just like Gloria Gaynor and Donna Summer, Selena’s status as a queer Latin icon is undeniable.
Walter Mercado
This Puerto Rican astrologer, actor and dancer is recognized by many generations for his successful career in the entertainment industry and his unique extravagant style. Walter will always be remembered as a trailblazer gender-nonconforming latino.
Celia Cruz
Celia Cruz and her stunning and elaborated outfits onstage have inspired many generations, becoming the official face of salsa and a gay icon around the world, she is often celebrated in drag shows and pride festivals.
Juan Gabriel
El Divo de Juarez never officially came out as gay, however he is known for his unique voice and flamboyant outfits onstage. The brave musican was once asked about his sexuality, to which he responded at the time, “They say that what you can see, you don’t ask, son.”
Gloria Estefan
Gloria Estefan has embraced the LGBTQ community from the start of her career. “The gay community was one of the first communities that supported us because we were huge in the clubs and in the gay clubs, particularly, because the gay community is usually a little bit ahead of trends and musical trends and fashion trends,” she shared in reference to the success of her music career.
Chavela Vargas
Chavela Vargas fought gender roles from the start of her career. The singer was open about her sexuality in her music and style and became a total success in the 1960’s. And while it remains to be a rumor, Chavela has been romantically linked to Frida Kahlo in the past.
Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo is still one of the most universally recognizable artists in the world, this visionary Mexican bisexual will always remain a queer icon, for her incredible talent and lasting impact among the community.
Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez is not just a successful singer, actress, dancer and businesswoman. This LGBT advocate has all the support of the Latin community. Lopez produced the ABC Family show ‘The Fosters,’ winning a GLAAD Vanguard award in 2014 and highlighted the fact that the series “holds a mirror to society and shines a light on what love looks like. It doesn’t matter your race or sexual orientation. Love is love.”
Ricky Martin
Ricky Martin gave us one more reason to be proud, after coming out in 2010 the singer has lived his life authentically and has been open about his struggles and personal life. “This kind of truth gives me the power to conquer emotions I didn’t even know existed,” he previously stated.
Alejandra Guzman and Paulina Rubio
Alejandra Guzman and Paulina Rubio have shown their support for the queer community over the years. Recently with the success of their ‘Perrisimas Tour,’ the two Mexican divas celebrated their LGBT fans onstage. Paulina and Alejandra are also known for headlining pride festivals all over the world, always showing their appreciation for the queer community and crediting them for their success.