Selena Gomez Promises to ‘Open Doors’ for Latinas in Emotional Awards Speech
Selena Gomez continues to use her voice to break barriers and amplify representation in the entertainment industry. On December 4, the 32-year-old multihyphenate was honored with the Equity in Entertainment Award at The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Gala at The Beverly Hills Hotel.
The award, established in 2016, celebrates individuals who elevate underrepresented voices in the entertainment world. Gomez’s acceptance speech was not just a reflection of her career journey—it was a powerful call to action for meaningful inclusion and equity.
Selena Gomez Reflects on the Power of Representation
During her acceptance speech, Selena Gomez shared a pivotal moment from her time on Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place. According to People Gomez recalled a young mother approaching her during a taping, expressing gratitude for her presence on-screen.
“She said, ‘I’m so excited and happy. Thank you for being someone that looks like my daughter on TV because she can finally look up to someone like her,’” Gomez said. Although she was only 15 at the time, the interaction stayed with her.
At the gala, Gomez explained how this encounter shaped her understanding of representation. “I wasn’t thinking about the importance of representation or the gravity of those words then,” she admitted. “But I knew that I was very grateful, and I wanted to do my best to live up to that, whatever form it looked like.”
Representation Isn’t Just Visibility—It’s Opportunity
Gomez made it clear that her advocacy for representation goes beyond seeing diverse faces on-screen. “When we give people the platform to tell their stories, we not only deepen our understanding for one another, we open doors to what’s possible,” she said, as reported by People.
Representation, Gomez emphasized, is about creating meaningful opportunities for individuals to see themselves reflected in complex, empowered roles. She believes young girls need to see themselves as leaders, heroes, and multidimensional characters to inspire their aspirations.
Her newest project, Emilia Pérez, exemplifies this commitment. Gomez described the film as a celebration of Latinas, one that is both specific and universally relatable. She noted the importance of ensuring “our voices are not only heard but represented truthfully.”
How Advocacy Extends Beyond Film and TV
Gomez’s influence isn’t confined to the entertainment industry. Molly Shannon, her Only Murders in the Building co-star, introduced her at the event, highlighting her dedication to mental health advocacy, Lupus research, and her work with organizations like UNICEF and Make-A-Wish.
“Her advocacy transcends entertainment,” Shannon said, according to The Hollywood Reporter. “She challenges the status quo and creates a more inclusive, compassionate world for all.”
Selena Gomez Is Calling for Change—and She’s Just Getting Started
Despite progress in representation, Gomez acknowledged that there is still work ahead. “We are now seeing more authentic, powerful stories about who we are, where we come from, and what we’re capable of accomplishing,” Gomez said during her speech. “But while we’re getting there, we’re not all the way done.”
The actress and singer concluded her remarks with a message of hope and empowerment. “Together, we can break down barriers, amplify women’s voices, and create a future where everyone’s stories are told.” For Gomez, that future begins with collective action—both within the industry and as consumers who choose to support equitable representation.
A Testament to Her Impact
The Equity in Entertainment Award recognizes Gomez’s efforts to reshape the way we understand one another through storytelling. Whether through her role in Emilia Pérez or her broader advocacy work, Selena Gomez continues to champion a more inclusive entertainment landscape.
Her journey, from a young Latina on a Disney show to a history-making producer and Emmy-nominated actress, serves as an inspiration for others to dream big and challenge the status quo. As Gomez told People, “We deserve to be who we are… and there’s more change coming.”
