Eva Longoria Responds to Backlash From Her "Latina Women Were the Real Heroines" Comment

Following the criticism she received after her interview on MSNBC, Eva Longoria spoke out to clarify her remarks. Keep scrolling for the full statement.

By Mona Thomas Nov 09, 2020 3:12 PMTags
Watch: Eva Longoria & Gloria Estefan Explain Lack of Latino Representation

Eva Longoria is speaking out and clearing up her controversial statement. 

During a live MSNBC interview on Oct. 8, the Desperate Housewives actress discussed the impact Latina women had on the U.S. 2020 Presidential election, primarily on the support shown for President-elect Joe Biden

"The women of color showed up in big ways," she told host Ari Melber. "Of course you saw in Georgia what Black women have done, but Latina women were the real heroines here, beating men in turnout in every state and voting for Biden-Harris at an average rate close to three to one." Her comment immediately created a buzz as it gave the impression that Latina women were more paramount in the ultimate win for the Biden-Harris ballot than Black women voters. 

On Nov. 9, Longoria took to Twitter to apologize and explain her statement further. 

"I'm so sorry and sad to hear that my comments on MSNBC could be perceived as taking credit from Black women," she wrote. "When I said that Latinas were heroines in this election, I simply meant that they turned out in greater numbers and voted more progressively than LATINO MEN."

photos
Eva Longoria's Best Looks

The star continued, "My wording was not clear and I deeply regret that, There is such a history in our community of anti-Blackness in our community and I would never want to contribute to that, so let me be very clear: Black women have long been the backbone of the Democratic Party, something we have seen played out in this election as well as previous ones." 

The mother of one included all women of color in her statement—"Latinas (many who identify as Afro-Latina), indigenous women, AAPI women and other women of color are standing with them so we can grow our collective voice and power. Together, we are unstoppable!"

She concluded the post in celebration, writing, "Nothing but love and support for black women everywhere! You deserve a standing ovation!!!!!"

Kerry Washington co-signed Longoria's post by retweeting and adding, "I know Eva like a sister. We have been in many trenches together. She is a fighter for all women. Read below. This is what she meant. This is how she truly feels."