A Diva From Humacao

Rita Moreno, for me, is like a Titi (Auntie) from another grandmother. I first encountered her while watching The Electric Company. Her voice welcomed me each day by saying "Hey you guys!" I adore her.

She turned it out in the film version of West Side Story as Anita. She won an Oscar for that role. She also won two Emmys. One was for an appearance on Rockford Files, and the other, well you'll see the clip below. She also has a Tony and Grammy on her shelf.

Some of my fellow Puerto Ricans have issues with Rita. They feel that at times during her career she sold out and played roles that demeaned Latinos/as. All I can say to that is she was a pioneer and had to take some hits for the home team. Her efforts laid the groundwork for other Latinos/as to come after her and do their thing in the entertainment business.

I met her once, and she was so divine and loving. She also spoke at several events I attended and told those in the audience to go for theirs, despite the challenges or racism they may face. She's a proud woman that has overcome many obstacles.

I appreciate her because back in the day, she gave me a face to look at that reminded me how beautiful and talented my people are. With that said, enjoy Doña Rita with one of my favorite Muppets.