Selena’s hits were also popular in Ecuador in the mid-90’s. “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom”  was the cool song in my fifth grade class. I remember my English school teacher talking about Selena and how great she connected her Texan and Latino heritages through music. At the time I didn’t understand the impact of biculturalism and all the doors that Selena was opening through her talent and charisma.

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was an American singer, fashion designer and spokeperson. Called the Queen of Tejano music, she redefined Latino music and marked a new era for Latino artists in the United States. She represented the bi-cultural generation of Latinos for her Mexican-American heritage. On March 31st, 1995, Selena was killed by her fan club president, a tragedy that impacted the world.

Over twenty years of Selena’s death, her legacy continues to expand. Not only for her music, but for how much she empowered the Latino Community. As a third-generation Texan of Mexican descent, she started opening conversations about the impact of the Latino in the United States. She taught us through her example that it is never too late to learn Spanish, and even if you never do, you should still feel that you are Latino enough.

Selena is considered one of the most influential Latino artists of all-time. Regardless if you are a fan of her music or not, I think we all can learn from her life. Read below some of my favorite Selena’s quotes on different topics.

9 Selena Quintanilla Inspiring Quotes

On Latino Heritage                                                                                                                                    “I feel very proud to be Mexican. I didn’t have the opportunity to learn Spanish when I was a girl, but it’s never too late to get in touch with your roots.”