Blue Beetle, directed by Angel Manuel Soto is set to be the first ever DC film starring a Latino superhero, a massive win for the Latinx community.  Yesterday it was announced that DC’s “Blue Beetle,” would be going straight to HBO Max without a theatrical release. One of the most memorable superhero experiences has always been seeing our favorite heroes on the big screen. However, the Latinx community will not be able to see themselves represented on screen in a crowded theater with a community of fans to celebrate. Latinos make up the highest rate of moviegoers in the United States, where 27% are frequent moviegoers, higher than any other group of people.

When it comes to superheroes we have seen Iron Man, Captain America, Ant-Man, the Guardians of the Galaxy, Batman, and Superman (the list goes on and on) have the opportunity to sell out their own theaters. For Latinx children everywhere, what sort of message are we sending by saying “Blue Beetle is not worthy of a theatrical release?” This is an opportunity for all voices to be heard in order to get Blue Beetle on the big screen rather than just streaming on HBO Max. Children, teenagers, and even adults of color should have the opportunity to be represented on screen in the same format. We have had, and are having, films such as Black Panther and Shang Chi, huge achievements in the superhero world. But, now it is time for the Latinx community to celebrate. By signing this petition you are letting Warner Brothers know that the representation of Blue Beetle, the first Latino superhero, is just as important as the heroes we see in the theater every year. Furthermore, that equality starts with small steps, and bringing Blue Beetle to the big screen will show the Latinx community that they matter and are being heard.