Emilia Perez and the Oscars, Learn About Male Quinceañeros, Trump's Immigration Actions, and More.
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Emilia Perez and The Oscars
The movie of the moment has lovers and critics.
The film Emilia Pérez, directed by French filmmaker Jacques Audiard, has sparked considerable controversy since its release. Despite receiving multiple nominations and awards at international festivals, the movie has faced significant criticism, particularly in Mexico.
One of the main criticisms concerns the cultural representation and authenticity of the film. Audiard has admitted to not thoroughly researching the Mexican context, leading to accusations that the movie lacks sensitivity and understanding of Mexico's sociopolitical reality and the violence linked to cartels. Mexican cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto described the film as "completely inauthentic" and offensive.
Additionally, the film has been criticized for its lack of involvement of Mexican actors and crew. Casting director Carla Hool implied a supposed lack of local talent in Mexico, which sparked outrage. Mexican actor Eugenio Derbez also criticized Selena Gomez's performance in the film, arguing that her lack of fluency in Spanish affected her portrayal. Although he later apologized, his comments polarized public opinion.
The portrayal of the transgender community in the film has also been a subject of debate. While transgender actress Karla Sofía Gascón plays the protagonist, some critics and LGBTQ+ organizations have argued that the movie perpetuates harmful stereotypes and offers a regressive representation of transgender people.
In response to these criticisms, Jacques Audiard apologized to those who found certain representations in the film offensive. He acknowledged that, being an "opera" rather than a "realistic" work, some interpretations might be perceived as insensitive. Despite the apologies, the controversy persists, particularly in Mexico, where the film has been criticized by audiences and local critics.
Despite the controversy, Emilia Pérez has succeeded during the awards season, winning four Golden Globes and earning several BAFTA nominations and thirteen nominations to the Oscars. However, the division in the film's reception between international and local audiences highlights the complexity of representing foreign cultures and experiences. It underscores the importance of authenticity and sensitivity in cinematic storytelling.
Meet Male Quinceañeros
In recent years, more and more male teenagers have been adopting this tradition to celebrate their transition to maturity.
Traditionally, the quinceañera is a celebration that marks the transition from childhood to adolescence for young Latina girls when they turn 15.
This new custom reflects an evolution in gender norms and greater acceptance of individual expression within the Latino community. Quinceañeros often incorporate traditional elements of quinceañeras, such as choreographed dances, elegant outfits, and religious ceremonies, but they are adapted to suit the preferences and personalities of young male teens.
Some parents and community members have expressed resistance to this trend, arguing that the quinceañera is an exclusively feminine tradition and that quinceañeros could dilute its original meaning. However, many young men and their families view this practice as an opportunity to celebrate identity and personal growth, challenging traditional gender norms and fostering greater inclusivity.
The popularity of quinceañeros has also influenced the event and fashion industries, with vendors and designers adapting their offerings to meet the demand of these new clients. From custom suits to unique themes, quinceañeros are redefining how milestones are celebrated in the lives of Latino teenagers in the United States.
Trump’s Immigration Actions: What You Need to Know
What is going to happen in the coming months?
On the first day of his second term, President Donald Trump issued a series of executive orders that aim to reshape U.S. immigration policies. These orders cover everything from deportation rules to who can apply for asylum and even how citizenship is determined. Many of these actions are controversial and could lead to major changes for immigrants, asylum seekers, and the legal system.
Key Changes in Immigration Policies
1. Expedited Deportations:
Immigration officials can now arrest and deport people without a court hearing if they believe the person has been in the U.S. for less than two years. It’s up to the immigrant to prove otherwise.
2. Registration of Noncitizens:
Noncitizens must register and provide fingerprints to the government or face criminal penalties. This could create challenges for undocumented immigrants.
3. Work Permits Restricted:
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is instructed to stop issuing work permits to immigrants without other legal status, even if they are waiting on asylum or green card applications.
4. Sanctuary Cities Targeted:
Federal funding may be revoked from states and cities that don’t enforce federal immigration laws.
5. Partnerships with Local Law Enforcement:
The government wants to expand agreements with local police to help enforce immigration laws.
6. Ending Public Benefits for Undocumented Immigrants:
Federal agencies have been directed to ensure unauthorized immigrants don’t receive public assistance.
Border Policies and Asylum Restriction
The administration has taken steps to tighten control of the U.S./Mexico border. It has barred migrants from seeking asylum if they don’t present their information to the government before entering the U.S. and labeled migration across the border an "invasion." These orders allow the military to play a larger role in border enforcement and include the possibility of using laws like the Insurrection Act to deal with migration.
Key actions include:
- Asylum Ban: Migrants without proper documentation are now banned from seeking asylum.
- “Remain in Mexico Policy”: Asylum seekers must wait in Mexico while their cases are processed.
- CBP One App Cancelled: The app used to schedule asylum appointments is no longer operational, leaving thousands stranded in Mexico.
- Military Involvement: Military funding and personnel will now be used to build border barriers and enforce border control.
Rolling Back Legal Protections
Trump’s executive orders also target legal protections that existed under previous administrations, including:
- Birthright Citizenship: Babies born in the U.S. after February 19, 2025, may not automatically be U.S. citizens if their parents are undocumented or on temporary visas.
- Parole Programs: DHS plans to phase out programs that allow certain immigrants, such as those from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, to temporarily stay in the U.S.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS):TPS designations from the Biden administration will be reviewed, potentially affecting about one million people.
What’s Happened So Far
Several changes have already been implemented:
- The asylum ban took effect immediately on January 21, 2025.
- The "Remain in Mexico" policy is back in place.
- The CBP One app has been disabled, canceling thousands of pending asylum appointments.
- Up to 1,500 troops are being sent to the border to assist with enforcement.
What’s Next?
1. Legal Challenges:
Many of these actions will likely face lawsuits, including the asylum ban and the attempt to deny birthright citizenship. Courts may stop some of these policies from being enforced.
2. More Guidance Needed:
Federal agencies need to clarify how these changes will work. For example, it’s unclear how asylum seekers in the "Remain in Mexico" program will proceed if they’re already barred from receiving immigration relief.
3. New Refugee Policies:
Refugee admissions have been suspended. The government plans to create a new process to admit only refugees who can "assimilate" into U.S. culture, with more input from states and local governments.
4. Potential Travel Bans:
Officials are working on identifying countries that don’t share enough information with the U.S., which could lead to travel bans similar to those implemented during Trump’s first term.
What It All Means
The new policies signal stricter enforcement and fewer legal pathways for immigrants and asylum seekers. Even people who already have legal status, such as those with TPS or parole, could lose their protections. The decision to deny birthright citizenship could leave many future children stateless and deportable. These actions have created widespread uncertainty for immigrant families, leading to fear and anxiety about the future.
Impact on the Future of Asylum
For decades, asylum in the U.S. offered protection to people fleeing danger. While past administrations added restrictions, the basic promise of asylum remained intact. Now, these new policies have effectively ended that promise. Migrants and asylum seekers face overlapping restrictions that may be nearly impossible to navigate, leaving border agents with unchecked power to decide their fate.
Ultimately, the Trump administration’s actions represent a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. Whether or not they survive legal challenges, these policies will have long-term effects on immigrants, their families, and the future of immigration in America.
❤️ Cosas que nos encantan | ❤️ Things We Love
Touchland: For Your Everyday Life
An award-winning brand founded by the talented Hispanic entrepreneur Andrea Lisbona, it has revolutionized the concept of personal hygiene products by offering innovative and stylish solutions for daily care. Its standout product is the Power Mist, a spray-format hand sanitizer that combines effectiveness, design, and a variety of fragrances to provide a unique sensory experience.
The Power Mist is available in 15 exclusive fragrances, including Mango Passion, Beach Coco, Aloe You, and Citrus Grove, among others. Each scent is designed to leave a fresh and pleasant sensation without the dryness often caused by other sanitizers. Additionally, its hydrating and fast-absorbing formula ensures hands remain soft and nourished after every use.
Recently, Touchland expanded its product line with the launch of Power Essence, a body and hair mist infused with skin-care ingredients. This fragrance collection, developed over three years, features eight immersive scents aimed at awakening the senses and boosting mood. It will be available for purchase starting February 3.
Touchland products can be purchased directly from their official website as well as through partnered retailers like Amazon, Target, Ulta Beauty, and Sephora. The brand also offers customizable options, including tailored bundles and special collaborations.
Touchland is committed to inspiring and enhancing daily essentials by offering products that combine functionality, design, and skin care for a superior personal hygiene experience.
