LGBTQ+ mariachi band seeks acceptance
LGBTQ+ mariachi band seeks acceptance
Location: Whittier, California
Carlos Samaniego is challenging the macho world of mariachi
"The fact that we are LGBTQ+ only gives it a different perspective of this traditional music, but that we can really represent the traditions of Mexico and still be our authentic selves and that's really what's beautiful about this connection."
He founded the first LGBTQ+ mariachi band
They are called Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles
They had three gigs in LA on Cinco de Mayo
The shows are part of an acceptance campaign
Natalia is transgender and is the group's violinist
"You know, I always felt like I had to one up the other musicians and singing and playing because they would always ... a lot of musicians would downgrade me. They would talk about me or make fun of me. So I felt like I had to show them that I'm more talented than they are, so to speak, throughout my career. So I faced many obstacles, but I'm happy."
