Jackie Cruz on Latinx Representation in Hollywood: "I'm Tired of Being in a Box"

When Jackie Cruz landed the part of Marisol "Flaca" Gonzales on Netflix's Orange Is the New Black, she became part of a show that would change the way Latinx are represented in Hollywood. The 30-year-old sat down with Netflix for the new video series "#FirstTimeISawMe" and spoke candidly about not seeing someone like herself on TV when she was growing up and how her character is helping break that cycle. Hearing Jackie speak will resonate with any one who wishes there were more Latinx faces in Hollywood.

"We need shows that represent who we are as a people," she said. "It was very hard for me to get roles because they put us in a box. I'm tired of being in a box. Latinas are all different colors and sizes, and it's time to make that change."