Tanya Saracho’s “efforts towards increasing diversity within all aspects of the entertainment industry” are set to be celebrated at this year’s Imagen Awards. According to a press release, the “Vida” creator will be receiving the Norman Lear Writer’s Award at the October 10 ceremony.
Given to individuals who advocate for inclusivity in show biz, the Norman Lear prize has previously gone to “One Day at a Time” showrunner Gloria Calderon Kellett, actress-writer-producer Luisa Leschin, and more.
“Vida,” the story of two sisters trying to revitalize their late mother’s struggling bar in gentrifying Boyle Heights, ended last year after three seasons. The Starz series featured all-Latine writers and directors throughout its run, with Seasons 2 and 3 helmed entirely by Latina directors and Season 3 penned exclusively by Latina writers. Saracho made her directorial debut on the Season 2 finale, and went on to helm three episodes of the final season, including the series finale.
Saracho’s advocacy work includes launching the Ojalá Ignition Lab, a lab and incubator program dedicated to nurturing and amplifying intersectional Latine voices; co-founding the Writers’ Access Support Staff Training Program, a Writers Guild Foundation initiative offering writers who are BIPOC, LGBTQ+, live with disabilities, and/or are over the age of 50 the resources and education needed to become writers’ assistants and script coordinators; and co-founding the Untitled Latinx Project, which aims to increase Latine representation across all TV/streaming platforms via content from Latine creators.
“’Vida’ broke ground on so many levels, bringing to the forefront stories that otherwise would remain untold. Rather than rest on her laurels, Tanya continues to champion for stories and storytellers that reflect our communities’ voices, experiences, and cultures,” said Helen Hernandez, President & Founder of the Imagen Foundation. “Her work, determination, and willingness to share her voice, reflect the essence of the Norman Lear Writer’s Award.”
Saracho added, “I am humbled and deeply honored to be recognized by Imagen with this prestigious award, especially one named after such an inspiring and talented icon, activist, and creative force, Norman Lear. And I strive to continue in the example he has set and use my platform and voice to increase Latine representation across our industry.”
“How to Get Away with Murder” and “Looking” are among Saracho’s other TV writing credits. Also a playwright, her productions include “Fade,” “Hushabye,” and “Mala Hierba.” Saracho will make her feature directorial debut with a film adaptation of the latter, a portrait of a Texas trophy wife reconnecting with the woman who may be her true love.
The Imagen Awards will be presented on PBSSoCal.org and KCET.org October 10 at 5 p.m. PST/8 p.m. EST.
