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!Soy Yo! Portlandia
Latinx is used to describe a wide range of people, yet we are as diverse as the many names we call ourselves.
The project photographed more than 60 different expressions of Latinidad identity at the Historic Heathman Hotel in downtown Portland, Oregon. Each set is an unapologetic statement that exclaims, This Is Me, a Latino in Portland. A celebration of our history and presence in the city. The project invites participants to share their stories and experiences through photos and recorded interviews.
Beyond the Photos
It's a powerful experience to see yourself reflected in the media, and even more so to have agency over how your story is told. Each participant was invited to title their set and share a message along with the images created. Here are just a few of those stories.
Afro-Latina
Luxurious
I want to create visibility for darker-skinned Latine individuals. WE EXIST, and are as much of a part of the culture as our lighter-skinned gente. (The) media tries to erase us, but I will take up space and give space to others, so we are seen.
Testimonials
Queer
I wanted to be part of this because I'm a professor, a business owner, and a badass! I'm also a queer, Indigenous designer born and raised in Portland.
Mexican
Ammi & Bebe
To be Latine, to me, is to be able to hold the breadth and depth of my child's identities, to nurture in them the beauty and richness of their multi-continental ancestral lines.
Mexican
Mujer Indigena
Representar la minoría de comunidades indígenas, mujeres, niños y niñas rovales, comunidades indígenas juntos.
Mexican
Raqi
I wanted to be part of this project as a way to show being gender fluid within the Latinx community, as well as being fluid within my identity as a Latinx person.
BOliviana
Boliviana
I want to create visibility for darker-skinned Latine individuals. WE EXIST, and are as much of a part of the culture as our lighter-skinned gente. (The) media tries to erase us, but I will take up space and give space to others, so we are seen.
Conectate con migo
This extensive body of work is just the beginning. Latinos exist across the country, and we are a significant part of US and global history and culture. We are as diverse and unique as the places we come from and the interests we have. "!Soy Yo! -Portlandia" is a small representation of Latinidad and is ready to be shared and expanded.
Ideas, thoughts, let's connect.
This Project was made possible with the help of
