The second season of Leguizamo Does America premiered on Sunday, July 6 on MSNBC, and chose Philadelphia as its starting point. In this episode, actor and activist John Leguizamo dives deep into the rich cultural fabric of the local Latino community from its cuisine and art to activism and the urban challenges it faces.
One of the key moments of the episode was his meeting with Reverend Luis Cortés Jr., founder of Esperanza, a nonprofit based in North Philadelphia. As they walked along the iconic North 5th Street, known as “La Cinco,” they discussed the future of Latinos in the U.S., the importance of community leadership, and the impact of gentrification on traditional neighborhoods.
During his visit, Leguizamo also spoke with local figures who embody the soul of the city: Cristina Martínez (South Philly Barbacoa) and Arturo Lorenzo (Café y Chocolate) shared their stories of migration and resistance through food; Kensington-based ceramicist Roberto Lugo spoke about how his art reflects the urban realities of the community; and former Phillies general manager Rubén Amaro Jr. addressed the presence and impact of Latinos in baseball.
The show didn’t shy away from difficult topics. With a critical voice, Leguizamo emphasized that gentrification is not development, but displacement. The program also featured leaders like María Quiñones-Sánchez, the first Latina elected to Philadelphia City Council, who stated: “We’re not guests in this city. We built it. We live it.”
The episode airs amid a tense political climate marked by anti-immigrant rhetoric. Yet the series aims to showcase the strength, pride, and diversity of the Latino experience in the United States.
Esperanza, the organization featured in the episode, has spent nearly 40 years working on education, housing, economic development, and immigration legal services. It has invested millions in revitalizing communities like Hunting Park, reaffirming its commitment to a more equitable, inclusive, and representative Philadelphia.
This episode brings national attention to our community — its struggles and triumphs — and reminds us that the stories unfolding in our streets deserve to be told and celebrated.
Official Trailer:
