Rita Moreno: A Prideful Puerto Rican Icon

Despite popular belief, Rita Moreno is indeed Puerto Rican, just like me. Her real name is Rita Dolores Alverio, originally from Humacao in Puerto Rico, the same municipality where West Side Story was filmed.

A legendary actress and singer, her portrayal as a gang girl in West Side Story and a prison nun in OZ: Conquest of Oz has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her performances have showcased her versatility and talent.

Her Proud Roots and Resilience

Despite the challenges Rita faced, she remains extremely proud of her Puerto Rican heritage. One of her earliest and most significant roles was in the iconic film West Side Story, which was released in 1961. At this time, the West Side Story play had debuted a few years prior.

Becoming a Puerto Rican character in the film was a bittersweet experience for Rita. The producers asked the Puerto Rican actors to use skin darkening makeup, despite Rita’s protest that Puerto Ricans have various skin tones. One incident that stands out in her early life is when she was served at an airport in San Juan by a blue-eyed blonde, highlighting the diversity within her own ethnicity.

Additionally, a line in the song “America” from West Side Story reads, “Puerto Rico you ugly island…” This line was particularly disheartening for Rita, as she is a proud Puerto Rican and could not align herself with such negative portrayal. Her disdain for this line highlighted her dedication to representing her culture accurately and with respect.

A Proud Bride of Multiple Awards

Rita Moreno's Puerto Rican heritage is evident in her choice of birthplace, which is Humacao, a municipality on the southeast part of the main island of Puerto Rico. Her parents were a seamstress and a farmer, contributing to her humble beginnings. Her career is nothing short of a National Treasure, and she is one of the few individuals to have won an Oscar, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony award. This unique honor solidifies her status as a diverse and celebrated figure in the world of entertainment.

Conclusion

Rita Moreno's dedication to her Puerto Rican heritage is evident in her work and the battles she fought for accurate representation. Despite the challenges, she remains a beacon of pride for the Puerto Rican community and a true icon of the performing arts.

For more information on Rita Moreno, visit her official Wikipedia page.