Bustles Without This Woman is a series of essays honoring the women who change and challenge us every day.
I wanted to be just like her.
She broke barriers worldwide for the Afro-Latino community.Celia Cruz was the Queen of Salsa, and she was Black.
Backstage, I used to model through all the hallways.
She would see me and laugh because I was very sassy.
Im grateful for those memories.
I performed with a lot of major artists onSabado Gigante.
Even at an early age, I could feel her greatness; it was something out of this world.
I wish she knew how impactful her life was to so many Afro-Latinx people like myself.
I was in school when I learned ofCelia Cruzs death in 2003.
I cried so much.
Eighteen years later, I can think back to that day and still cry about it.
At 13 years old, I felt like my superhero died.
In your mind, you think your superhero is eternal.
She represented hope for me.
She was so powerful through her music and through the way she carried herself.
If I could say anything to her right now, Id tell her, Thank you for your life.
Thank you for your sacrifices.
Thank you for your music.
Thank you for being true to yourself.
She was humble, she was charismatic, she was this big light whenever she walked into a room.
Unfortunately, in due time, after your purpose is fulfilled on earth, youre called home.
But without a doubt, I believe Celia Cruz was the chosen one.
As told to Princess Gabbara.
This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
