Latinos have long been stereotyped in Hollywood, often limited to roles that portray narrow or negative representations of our diverse cultures. For years, we've been typecast as criminals, maids, or in other roles that don’t fully capture the richness and depth of the Latino experience. However, there has been progress in recent years, with more Latino actors, filmmakers, and storytellers gaining recognition and telling authentic stories that break free from these outdated molds. But we cannot wait for Hollywood to fully open its doors—we must take charge of our own narratives. By creating our own production companies, media platforms, and independent films, we can showcase the vast array of Latino talent and tell stories on our own terms, reshaping how the world sees us. The time is now for Latinos to step into the role of creators, not just consumers, of entertainment. www.johnhenrysoto.com