Naya Rivera’s Role As Santana Lopez, The Afro-Latina Queer Representation On Hit TV-Show Glee Was The Shero We Loved & Revered

It was back in 2009 when Naya Rivera was introduced to the world, as Santana Lopez. She was the first Afro-Latina Queer Representation I had ever seen on TV. At only eleven years old, like many of my peers, I tuned in every week to awe and cheer on Naya Rivera’s performance of her iconic role as Santana Lopez. Rivera was a true triple threat, with her beautiful singing voice, amazing dance skills, and buzzing charisma on and off-screen.

1.All of Santana’s witty comebacks

2. Every Unholy Trinity Reunion Ever.

Season 3 – Santana comes out to her Grandmother.

Season 3 – When Santana Calls Out Mr. Schuester for cultural appropriation.

Season 5 – Following Finn’s death (as well as that of his portrayer, Cory Monteith), Santana pays tribute to her friend with her emotional rendition of “If I Die Young.”

Season 5 – When Santana moves to New York, she takes center stage in Broadway and does her version of “Don’t Rain On My Parade.”

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