The Pioneering Impact of Latinx Comic Book Creators & Characters
National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated each year from September 15 to October 15. The 2024 theme, Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together, provides a fitting backdrop to explore pioneering Latinx comic book creators and the evolution of inclusivity through the growing presence of Latinx characters. We’ll trace the journeys of artists and writers who not only championed Latinx representation but also highlighted the importance of copyright law in advancing diverse storytelling in the comic book industry.
1930s–1960s: Alex Schomburg’s Success Paved the Way for Future Latinx Comic Book Creators
In the 1940s, Latinx comic book creators were few and far between, as the industry was predominantly dominated by white artists, leaving little room for diverse voices. However, one standout figure was Puerto Rican artist Alex Schomburg. Schomburg became renowned for his work on covers featuring iconic characters like Captain America, the Sub-Mariner, and the Human Torch. Over his career, he produced more than 500 comic book covers for Timely Comics, the precursor to Marvel Comics. His artwork was celebrated for its intricate detail, often showcasing large, dynamic battle scenes with numerous characters. Schomburg’s covers were considered masterpieces of visual storytelling, and his influence endures through to today, as many contemporary artists continue to draw inspiration from his groundbreaking work.
Schomburg’s contributions paved the way for greater Latinx representation in the comic book industry. His success as a highly respected artist opened doors for other Latinx creators. His presence in the industry offered hope and confidence that a Latinx creator could achieve significant recognition within the industry, helping to break down barriers and expand opportunities for future generations.
1970s–1980s: George Pérez Pioneered Greater Diversity & Championed Financial Security for Comic Book Artists
Puerto Rican-American Illustrator and comic book writer George Pérez (1954 – 2022), was renowned for his exceptional work on team-based superhero comics, most notably through his creation of The New Teen Titans and his contributions to The Avengers. His work on The New Teen Titans in the 1980s introduced iconic characters like Cyborg, Raven, and Starfire, cementing his reputation as a master of managing large, complex casts of characters. His ability to handle the intricacies of the multiverse while delivering visually stunning and cohesive artwork made him a standout in the comic book industry. Using his platform, Pérez was also a pioneer in diverse storytelling by creating one of the first mainstream Hispanic American superheroes.
Pérez Created Marvel’s First Latin American Superhero & Puerto Rican Mainstream Character
Pérez made history by co-creating the first Latin American superhero and Puerto Rican mainstream character for Marvel (Hector Ayala, also known as White Tiger)— a significant milestone for the industry. This achievement broke new ground, as Latinx superheroes had long been underrepresented in mainstream comics. By creating these characters, Pérez not only contributed to greater diversity in the industry but also provided a role model for Latinx readers who finally saw themselves represented in the superhero genre. In doing so, his work paved the way for future Latinx creators and characters.
During Pérez’s era, the world was witnessing the rise of the Civil Rights Movement, prompting the comic book industry to start embracing more diverse characters. Despite this shift, Latinx representation remained minimal and frequently relied on stereotypes, reflecting a limited understanding and inclusion of Latinx culture within mainstream comics. Characters were often depicted as hot-tempered, criminal, or speaking with exaggerated accents—portrayals that were not only out of touch but also disrespectful to the entire community. Pérez, along with many other Latinx creators actively worked to break stereotypes and bring more authentic representation to the industry. His work became an inspiration to a new generation of artists and writers to continue fighting for inclusivity and authentic representation.
Pérez Draws Attention to the Financial Needs of Comic Book Creators
In addition to his artistic achievements, Pérez was instrumental in efforts to tackle the financial needs of comic book creators who were responsible for beloved characters and storylines. He was a founding member and a board chair for the non-profit The Hero Initiative, which provides help for comic book creators when it comes to emergency medical expenses, financial support for essentials of life, and a way back into paying work. His charity efforts for his fellow comic book artists highlights the importance of copyright law and its role in financial supporting creators to continue doing what they love and make a living from creative endeavors.
1990s–2000s: Increased Latinx Representation and Empowerment Through Copyright Ownership
From the 1990s to 2000s, Latinx comic book writers and artists started to gain more recognition for their works and additional Latinx comic book characters emerged in the mainstream including Miles Morales, half-Latino Spider-Man, and Jessica Cruz, a Latina Green Lantern. As representation and the success of Latinx characters grew, more Latinx comic book creators started advocating for ownership over their works.
For instance, comic book creators such as Humberto Ramos and Carlos Pacheco became noteworthy figures within the industry, proudly pursuing full ownership of their projects. Their work not only showcased their talent but also set the stage for future generations of creators to understand the benefits of creator ownership through intellectual property and copyright law. Ramos, through his involvement in the creation of Crimson in 1998, and Pacheco with Arrowsmith in 2003, pushed the industry to evolve in both representation and creator rights. They inspired others to seek ownership of their works, fostering a more inclusive and empowering environment for Latinx comic book creators.
2010s–Present: Latinx Creators Are Speaking Up
Today, representation in the comic book industry continues to advance, both in terms of including Latinx characters and elevating the voices of Latinx creators.
In 2021, 14.2% of comic book artists and 7.6% of comic book writers were Latinx, which is an increase from 10% artists and 5% writers back in 2010. Although there has been improvement, the industry still has a long way to go. That’s why Latinx creators continue to speak up about the importance of having their community participate in the creation of comic books and contributing their diverse voices.
Vita Ayala
One such creator who is contributing to greater representation is Vita Ayala, a trans, non-binary, Afro-Puerto Rican writer, who has made significant contributions to the industry with works like New Mutants, Children of the Atom, and Static. Ayala remains a fierce advocate for creator rights and authentic representation.
In an interview with Geeks Out, Ayala expressed, “The creators […] are what bring value to the industry. We should be respected and treated accordingly.” Ayala also emphasized that creators who share the same background as their characters bring an authenticity that enhances the storytelling. By continuing to push for accurate and respectful representation, Ayala exemplifies the ongoing fight for diversity, ownership, and equity within the comic book industry.
Edgardo Miranda-Rodriguez
Another creator who continued the movement of diverse representation in the comic book industry is Edgardo Miranda-Rodriguez. With his original character, La Borinqueña, he created the world’s first Afro-Latina superhero in 2016. Miranda-Rodriguez’s purpose of creating the character was due to the fact that, “Latinx are too often represented as lighter to whiter complexioned. We’re an ethnic group that’s comprised of various races. Our Africanness is too often overlooked or worse, ridiculed. I see the power in our diversity and in representing that in my character.” Miranda-Rodriguez’s La Borinqueña is a celebration of Latinx identity in all its complexity, offering an authentic and empowering portrayal that pushes back against stereotypical depictions of the Latinx community.
Having created his character independently, Miranda-Rodriguez noted that he maintained full ownership and creative control of his work through copyright law. Miranda-Rodriguez often discusses in his interviews the importance of creators in maintaining their rights, and the opportunities this could create in giving back to the community. He stated in one interview that, “We own the copyright of that book, the collection of stories in that anthology. It will only exist as a paperback book, and 100% of the revenue from the sales to this day go toward our continued philanthropic work in Puerto Rico.”
The Future of Latinx Creators & Characters in Comics
The pioneering efforts of talented Latinx comic book creators showcase not only how far they’ve furthered diversity in the industry but also how they’ve used their platforms and rights to give back to the community. These creators have proven that when Latinx backgrounds are brought to life, authentic representation must be a priority—steering away from outdated stereotypes and honoring the rich, vibrant cultures they represent. During National Hispanic Heritage Month—and every month for that matter—it’s imperative to celebrate Latinx creators and to advocate for creator rights and strong copyright laws that support and foster diverse, creative voices.
If you aren’t already a member of the Copyright Alliance, you can join today by completing our Individual Creator Members membership form! Members gain access to monthly newsletters, educational webinars, and so much more — all for free!