I wanted to expand on Fregoso’s discussion of the discursive construction of Latinas in early film, specifically the expression of Latinas as overly sexual symbols of female rebellion that sought to disrupt the moral order. In class, we mentioned that this “type” was employed as both a way to check female claims to self-determination as well as a way to pacify the racial anxieties of the burgeoning American Empire. Access to Latina roles was determined by the one-dimensionality of Latina stereotypes (i.e. spitfires). Resutantly, many icons were relegated to careers as the emotionally volatile and sexually voluptuous Latina (oh, and that accent!). In popular culture when we think of some locally historic Latina icons we think of Salma Hayek and Jennifer Lopez (maybe not so much anymore, but certainly from the mid to late 90s when public attention was regularly focused on these celebrities). Any discussion of these women will mention their part in the construction of Latina beauty—-which has been, for the most part, defined by their curvy bodies. The focus on the body of Latinas has been largely commodified and, consequently, claims a large part of our identification of these women. This calls into question their agency and efficacy as leaders or exemplars of Latino/-a culture and in their community. This is a complex discussion that I feel I am ill-equipped to pursue, but I am interested in the implications of the physical or visual aspect of popular culture. The relationship of these women to their “body” is especially complicated when considering the show Ugly Betty. Ugly Betty is a well-received television comedy/drama that has as its focus an unglamorous yet redeemably good-natured Latino woman (played by America Ferrera). It has been applauded for promoting a positive profile of the Latino community. Interestingly enough, Salma Hayek is one of the executive producers of the show. Now, I may be giving too much attention to this “body” thing, but what does it mean for Salma Hayek to not be at the center of this show (the problematic body) but behind it (the productive theme)? I realize that this is a rough and incomplete reflection, but I was hoping maybe to draw out a larger discussion in class Thursday.