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Crystal Roman of The Black Latina Movement highlights the contributions and strides Afro-Latina women have made in the entertainment industry. She does this through her film “Cecilia The Celibate” to shed new light on women of color and sexuality in the entertainment industry. The film follows the main character Cecilia Vasquez, a young woman who teams up with her two best friends to conquer her quest for love and happiness while staying true to her vow of celibacy. This romantic comedy explores the world of dating without the pressure of sexual intimacy and focuses on the development of a connection outside of the sexual realm.

Can you tell everyone, who is Crystal Roman?

That is such a complex question because I am so many things to so many people. I am a woman, a mother, a sister, a daughter, an entrepreneur, a Black Latina, a Producer, Director, Writer, Actress.

Can you tell us about your movie, “Cecilia the Celibate?”

Cecilia the Celibate is a romantic comedy about a woman trying to find love in NYC without the sex. In a hypersexualized society where you can just slide into someone’s DM and essentially into their bed, this is what makes this topic so interesting to watch, unfold and where at times the comedy comes into place.

Why was it important that this story gets out?

We too often see the stories of women trying to find love and only 1 side of that spectrum but what about women who want to find love and see the power in their choice to remove the sexual element of it. And we definitely don’t see women of color in sexual intellectual spaces.

Can you tell us what it looks like to be Black and Latina in America?

It means to understand the diaspora. To be clear about the difference between our race and ethnicity. To be comfortable in embracing both and the difference in 2022 between explaining and educating.

Let’s discuss bringing diversity to the business forefront. What does that mean and what are 5 things every woman of color should know about working in film and entertainment?

So much has been accomplished in business for Black women and Latinas. Although we have a long way to go, we have to celebrate the advancements of those before us. Standing on the shoulders of those that trailblazed as well as not letting those efforts be made in vain.

  1. Never question if you are good enough, if you are here in this industry, it is for a reason.
  2.  Always be ready so you don’t have to get ready.
  3. Speak up on what you don’t agree with even if it means you get looked over for a gig, a better one will present itself.
  4.  Know the business and never rush into a contract.
  5. Always stay true to you, despite what is going on around you.

What does Women’s empowerment mean to you?

It means staying 10 toes down as my authentic self. That there is power in my vulnerability as a woman and that doesn’t make me weak. There are things I can do that a Man can not. Empowerment is to empower other women and pay it forward.

What advice can you provide to those that are interested in starting a career in the film and entertainment industry?

If you are doing it for the money, you might as well leave now lol. It takes time to see the money you are worth BUT it should never be about the money but rather your love and desire to practice your craft, your love and passion for it.

What would you like our views to gain from this interview?

My goal is to continue to always be of service to my community. To create work that highlights us on many different levels and our complexities.

How can people connect with you?

My website www.BlackLatinaMovement.com and IG- @BlackLatinaMovement

Photo Credits: Crystal Roman