In a Dominican family, the role of women is often to be the unwavering glue that keeps the family together. From a young age, they are instilled with values of reliability, dependability, and emotional steadfastness. The emphasis on familismo, where family comes first always, leads many to believe that their worth lies in supporting the family at the expense of their own dreams. However, for some Latinas, this path is not enough. They are now reclaiming what it means to be "too much."

Latinas Breaking Free and Embracing Their Dreams

Challenging Familismo Values

For many Latinas, like the author Sasha Merci, choosing to follow their own dreams means going against the very foundation of their upbringing. Moving from New York to Los Angeles in 2018 to pursue a career in acting and comedy was a rebellious act. It was a decision that brought guilt and self-doubt, as she faced the disappointment of her family. But she realized that by putting her dreams first, she could break free from the cycle and set a new standard for what a Dominican woman could achieve.Each missed holiday or family celebration served as a reminder of the expectations she was defying. But she knew that her absence allowed her to see the generational issues more clearly and validate her choice to carve a new path.

The Tug-of-War Between Dreams and Family Loyalty

In a play like "La Egoísta," Sasha Merci found a powerful reflection of her own life. Josefina, like her, is caught in the middle of the tug-of-war between individual dreams and family loyalty. Familismo is a beautiful value, but it can also be a burden, especially for women. Latinas often face the unspoken rule that their dreams come second. While men are encouraged to be go-getters, women are expected to be nesters, sacrificing for the family.Through Josefina, Sasha came to understand the importance of embracing the "egoísta" within. It's not about being selfish; it's about recognizing one's own worth and having the courage to pursue one's dreams.

Sacrifices and Boundaries

As her career in comedy and acting took off, Sasha had to make sacrifices that many wouldn't understand. She missed weddings, birthdays, and other family gatherings. But she realized that setting boundaries was necessary for her well-being and mental health. It wasn't an act of abandonment; it was an assertion of self-respect.By sacrificing herself, she wasn't helping anyone in the long run. To be her best self and succeed in her career, she had to give herself permission to pursue what felt right, even if it went against everything she'd been taught.

Inspiring Others

Sasha's journey is an inspiration to other career-driven Latinas. She encourages them not to be afraid to embrace their inner "egoísta" and protect their dreams. By setting boundaries for their well-being, they are not abandoning their families; they are creating a legacy that shows future generations that they can follow their passions unapologetically.She is proud to be a Dominican woman carving a new path and hopes that by sharing her story, she can help others do the same.