Graduates Honor Their Immigrant Roots With Inspirational #ImmiGrad Posts

With graduation season in full swing, immigrant graduates and children of immigrants across the country are reflecting on the roads and people who led them to where they are today.

Last week, Define American ― a non-profit media and culture organization― partnered with Undocumedia to put out a call on social media encouraging graduates from immigrant families to share their personal stories using #ImmiGrad. The class of 2017 quickly obliged, posting sweet photos, touching anecdotes and heartwarming messages thanking their parents for their support, dedication and love.

Grab a box of tissues, and check out some of their posts below. 

"Cuando uno de nosotros tenemos éxito, todos tenemos éxito."❤ "When one of us succeeds, we all succeed."❤ – Hay dos razones por las que puse esto en mi birrete de graduacion: 1.Lo hermoso de la cultura Latina es que cuando uno de nosotros tiene éxito, toda la comunidad está orgullosa. 2.No estaría aquí hoy graduandome de la universidad si no fuera por mis entrenadores, mis profesores, mis amigas, mis compañeras de clase. Pero especialmente, yo no estaría aquí sin la gente especial en mi corazón: Mis padres. Ellos emigraron del #CerritoColorado, Michoacán, México. Llegaron a este país sin poder hablar una palabra de inglés. Ellos hicieron muchos sacrificios, trabajaron múltiples trabajos para poder cuidar de mis hermanas y yo. Lo que si recuerdo de mi infancia es que incluso cuando no teníamos mucho, nos hicieron sentir que teníamos todo lo que necesitábamos. También quiero dar las gracias a mis hermanas:Azucena, Cecilia, María y Rosi que siempre han estado a mi lado y me compraron una bolsa de Cheto de Chilies de vez en cuando. Por último, quiero dar gracias a mi novio Jordy, que ha estado a mi lado durante las buenas y las malas. ¡Gracias a todos! – There are 2 reasons why I put this on my graduation cap: 1.The beautiful thing about the Latino culture is that when one of us succeeds, the whole community is proud. 2.I wouldn't be here today graduating college of it wasn't for my coaches, my professors my friends, the OT girls in the program, but especially to the special people in my heart: My parents who immigrated from El Cerrito Colorado, Michoacán, México. They came here speaking no English, who made a lot of sacrifices for my sisters and I, and who worked multiple jobs. The one thing I can say I remember about my childhood is that even when we didn’t have much, they made us feel like we had everything we needed. And a shoutout to my sisters Azucena, Cecilia, Maria, and Rosi who have always been there for me and bought me an occasional bag of Hot Cheetos. And finally a big thank you to my boyfriend Jordy who put was there for me during the good days and the bad days. Thank you everyone! One more year of Grad school until I'm a therapist! #CSMGrad

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Le quiero dar muchas gracias a mis padres por tomar la decisión de emigrar a nuestra familia a “el norte” en busca de nuevas oportunidades. En este país es donde he tenido la oportunidad de encontrar mi pasión y desenvolverme en mi carrera estudiantil y profesional. Gracias por siempre demostrarme que con mucho trabajo, tenacidad, y ganas de crecer uno puedo lograr cada meta que uno se proponga. Ustedes son el mejor ejemplo y los mejores maestros que he tenido. Igual como las mariposas monarcas migran entre México y los Estados Unidos ustedes me han ensenado a conocer nuevos lugares sin nunca olvidar mis raíces. Apa y Ama los quiero mucho y gracias por todo su apoyo, y como siempre me han recomendado (regañado) al fin me puse las pilas! Y cuando me vean volar recuerden….usted me pintaron las alas! I’d like to thank my parents for taking that life changing decision of immigrating to America in search for better opportunities. In the US I have had the opportunity to find my true passion and develop both my student and professional roles. Thanks for always demonstrating that with hard work, persistence, and aspirations to grow one can achieve any goal one proposes. You are the best role models and teachers I’ve had. And just as the monarch butterflies migrate between Mexico and the US, you have taught me to seek adventure in new places without forgetting where I came from. Apa y Ama I love you guys and thanks for your support, and as you have always advised me (scolded me) finally I got my act together! And when you see me fly high remember….you painted my wings! #immigrad #mexican #master #msg #gerontology #csulb

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The cap says it all ft. @hatecopy ‍ Today, my brother and I celebrate our crown givers, our immigrant parents. Today we graduated. We're not living the American Dream, we're living the Immigrant Dream. I never imagined my father would sacrifice his health for me so that I could get an education. During my first semester at Sac State, my father was diagnosed with a diabetic eye disease. I cannot express to you the guilt I felt after finding out. My father did not want to spend a dime on his health because he wanted to put my brother & I through school. My father suffered in silence, he kept his vision troubles to himself until one day he almost crashed his truck into oncoming traffic. My father does not have the most glamorous job. He is a farm worker that loves what he does, but with diabetes it is hard to love a job that is harsh on your body. I feel as if God has a special way of nudging us in life. If God didn't step in when he did then today my father would be blind; meaning my father wouldn't have been able to see my brother and I walk across the stage. I will be honest, I am amazed at how I got here today, but then again I know why I am here today. If my father could push through the pain, as I know he did –then I can easily place a college degree in his hardworking hands. Our parents suffer in silence so we can be blessed with success. On many occasions, I have held my father when his blood sugar was too low. On many occasions, I have been a witness to his pain. On many occasions, I have felt guilty because I wished to be the one suffering instead. When I say that I am proud to be the daughter of immigrants, I do not say this lightly. I am charmed to the moon to say that I will be the first person out of my family to go to grad school this fall. These last 5 years have been a journey, but we made it Ma & Dad! Much love & Light to the class of 2017 P.S @SacState this daughter of immigrants still has more to offer, see you in the fall ______________ #StingersUp #MadeAtSacState #SacState #GradCap #GradSchool #Immigrants #Indian #India #SouthAsian #Sikh #Graduation #Diabetes #Diabetic #SacstateGrad #immigrad

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The ‘Despacito’ Lyric Guide That Every Non-Spanish Speaker Needs

Luis Fonsi’s “Despacito” became the No. 1 song in the country last week, a feat that hasn’t been achieved by a Spanish-language song since the “Macarena” in 1996.

The hit’s original version features reggeaton superstar Daddy Yankee. But in April, Justin Bieber decided to join the worldwide phenomenon and collaborated on a remix that quickly climbed the U.S. charts. 

Bieber sings in Spanish for the first time on the track, and Fonsi said the Canadian artist learned the lyrics phonetically in less than a week. The Spanish lyrics didn’t seem to stick, however, as the singer appeared to forget all the words to the song during a New York City club performance on Tuesday.

We get it, “Despacito” can be challenging for non-Spanish speakers. That’s why HuffPost Latino Voices is giving English-speaking fans a quick lyric guide. 

Here’s a rough translation of what the No. 1 song in the country is actually talking about. And yes, we’re using the lyrics from the original version

“Despacito” or “Slowly” 

Fonsi:

Sí, sabes que ya llevo un rato mirándote,
Tengo que bailar contigo hoy.
Vi que tu mirada ya estaba llamándome,
Muéstrame el camino que yo voy.

Yes, you know I’ve been looking at you for a while,

I have to dance with you today.

I saw that your look was already calling me,

show me the way and I’ll go. 

¡Oh!
Tú, tú eres el imán y yo soy el metal.
Me voy acercando y voy armando el plan,
sólo con pensarlo se acelera el pulso.
Ya, ya me está gustando más de lo normal.
Todos mis sentidos van pidiendo más,
Esto hay que tomarlo sin ningún apuro.

Oh!

You, you’re the magnet and I’m the metal.

I’m getting closer and coming up with a plan,

just thinking about it accelerates my pulse.

I’m already enjoying it more than normal.

All of my senses are asking for more,

this has to be done without a hurry.

[Chorus]
Despacito
Quiero respirar tu cuello despacito.
Deja que te diga cosas al oído,
para que te acuerdes si no estás conmigo.
Despacito
Quiero desnudarte a besos despacito.
Firmar en las paredes de tu laberinto
y hacer de tu cuerpo todo un manuscrito

Quiero ver bailar tu pelo, quiero ser tu ritmo
Que le enseñes a mi boca, tus lugares favoritos.
Déjame sobrepasar tus zonas de peligro,
hasta provocar tus gritos
y que olvides tu apellido

[Chorus]
Slowly

I want to breathe your neck slowly.

Let me whisper things in your ear,

that you’ll remember when you’re not with me.

Slowly

I want to undress you with kisses slowly.

Sign the walls of your labyrinth

and turn your body into a manuscript.  

I want to see your hair dance, I want to be your rhythm

I want you to show my mouth your favorite places.

Let me surpass your danger zone,

until it makes you scream

and makes you forget your last name. 

Daddy Yankee:

Si te pido un beso, ven, dámelo. Yo sé que estás pensándolo.
Llevo tiempo intentándolo, mami, esto es dando y dándolo.
Sabes que tu corazón conmigo te hace bam-bam.
Sabes que esa beba está buscando de mi bam-bam.
Ven, prueba de mi boca para ver cómo te sabe.
Quiero, quiero, quiero ver cuánto amor a ti te cabe.
Yo no tengo prisa, yo me quiero dar el viaje.
Empezamos lento, después salvaje.

Pasito a pasito, suave suavecito.
Nos vamos pegando, poquito a poquito.
Cuando tú me besas con esa destreza
veo que eres malicia con delicadeza.
Pasito a pasito, suave suavecito.
Nos vamos pegando, poquito a poquito.
Y es que esa belleza es un rompecabezas,
pero pa’ montarlo aquí tengo la pieza.
¡Oye!

If I ask you for a kiss, come on, give it to me. I know you’re thinking about it.

I’ve spent a while trying, mami, this is give and giving.

You know your heart with me goes bam-bam.

You know what this babe wants from me is bam-bam.

Come, taste my mouth to see how it tastes to you.

I want, want, want to see how much love fits in you.

I’m in no rush, I want to take the ride.

We’ll start slow and then go wild. 

Step by step, gentle gently.

We’ll get closer, little by little. 
When you kiss me with that skill,

I see that you are malice with finesse. 

Step by step, gentle gently.

We’ll get closer, little by little.
This beauty is a puzzle,

but to put it together I have the piece. 
Oye!

[CHORUS, 2x]

Luis Fonsi:
Despacito
Vamo’ a hacerlo en una playa en Puerto Rico,
hasta que las olas griten “¡Ay, Bendito!”
para que mi sello se quede contigo.
¡Bailalo!

Slowly

We’re going to do it on a beach in Puerto Rico,

until the waves scream “Oh, Lord!”

so that my seal [likely meaning mark or impression] stays with you.

Dance!

OK, now you’re ready to sing along with Fonsi and D.Y.!

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Teen Vogue Is Evolving Thanks To Elaine Welteroth

You may have noticed that Teen Vogue is getting political. At first, this may seem surprising. But to those who have been following the changes at the magazine, it was inevitable. Teen Vogue was recently taken over by a new editor-in-chief committed to making the publication more inclusive and aware of the world we live in. The new E.I.C, Elaine Welteroth, has created an editorial vision that’s expanded and prioritized its coverage of politics, feminism, identity, and activism as it relates to Teen Vogue’s audience.

This has caused a huge shift for the publication. Teen Vogue’s website has increased by 6.5 million unique visitors since last year when the magazine’s leadership pivoted. Welteroth is just the second person of color at a Conde Nasté subsidiary to hold a E.I.C position, and has more than risen to the challenge.

Diversity is a key component of her editorial strategy. Young readers are hungry for content that reflects a broad range of experiences, which is something Welteroth undoubtedly built upon from her time on Teen Vogue’s YouTube page hosting a show called “3 Steps To.

The new E.I.C may be the youngest in Conde Nasté’s history, but she’s proven that “serious” topics like religion, business, and politics should not be reserved strictly for older generations.

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T.J. Miller Is Leaving ‘Silicon Valley’ After Four Seasons

HBO has renewed “Veep” and “Silicon Valley,” but the latter will lose one of its key stars. T.J. Miller, who plays incubator chief Erlich Bachman, isn’t returning after the current season ends. 

HBO released the following statement on Thursday: “The producers of ‘Silicon Valley’ and T.J. Miller have mutually agreed that T.J. will not return for season 5. In Erlich Bachman, T.J. has brought to life an unforgettable character, and while his presence on the show will be missed, we appreciate his contribution and look forward to future collaborations.”

Without further explanation, it’s reasonable to assume that Miller’s burgeoning film career contributed to his decision to exit the show after four seasons. If so, he’ll find himself in mixed company: George Clooney (”ER”), Shelley Long (”Cheers”), Katherine Heigl (”Grey’s Anatomy”) and Dan Stevens (”Downton Abbey”) are among the actors who’ve abandoned series for big-screen pursuits. After Miller’s HBO stand-up special premieres June 17, he will voice the lead character in “The Emoji Movie.” Next year, he’ll appear in Steven Spielberg’s much-anticipated adaptation of “Ready Player One.” He’s also expected to have a bigger role in the “Deadpool” sequel. 

It’s unclear whether the “Silicon Valley” season finale, which airs June 25, will address Miller’s departure. (”This is all the info we have to share now,” an HBO rep told HuffPost when asked.) The rest of the cast is expected to return to the show, whose overnight ratings have dipped now that “Game of Thrones” isn’t airing as its lead-in.

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J.K. Rowling Calls Trump A ‘Tiny, Little Man’ After He Shoves A PM

This is magic.

President Donald Trump attended the NATO summit in Brussels on Thursday, where he was filmed making a gesture that looks like he is pushing aside Montenegro’s Prime Minister Dusko Markovic in order to shove his way to the front of a crowd. 

The White House reportedly defended the gesture, calling it a “casual greeting” between leaders. But the video went viral on Twitter nonetheless.

It wasn’t long before Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling shared a GIF of the moment on Twitter, captioning it with the ultimate burn: “You tiny, tiny, tiny little man.”

Much like quidditch, Rowling has made slamming Trump and his supporters on Twitter into a sport.

Yesterday she also called out journalist and Fox contributor Laura Ingraham for the insensitive remarks she made about the Eiffel Tower going dark following the Manchester attacks.

Watch our for Rowling’s blasts, y’all! 

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Rihanna Gives Powerful Message To Youth: ‘You Should Be Celebrated’

“I don’t think you get celebrated enough.”

This was Rihanna’s message to young people during her speech at the 69th annual Parsons School of Design benefit on Monday night. The pop star, wearing a pantsuit designed by a Parsons graduate, was there to be honored by the fashion school for her work as both a style icon and a humanitarian. 

The singer’s acceptance speech was directed at the students, and how they deserve much more credit for their contributions to the world than they receive. 

“You should be celebrated for every aspect of your growth and your growing pains,” Rihanna, who partnered with Donna Karan to lead a school fellowship program, said.  

“You should be celebrated for your creativity, for your fearlessness, for your persistence and determination. You should be celebrated for all the effort that you put into building your future, for being different, for not being given enough credit—for not having to use eye cream! My point is, we often tear our youth down when we should be building them up. At the end of the day, our future is in their hands.”

The singer gave a similarly inspiring message in March, when she accepted Harvard’s Humanitarian of the Year award, saying: “You don’t have to be rich to be a humanitarian, to help somebody. You don’t have to be famous. You don’t have to be college-educated.”

Later in the evening during the Parsons gala, Rihanna revealed the winner of the “Design Fellowship Program.” Through the program, three Parsons students will get the chance to work on a fashion merchandise line in Haiti for Rihanna’s Clara Lionel Foundation. 

Watch more excerpts from Rihanna’s speech above. 

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These Are The Hottest Baby Name Trends Of The Past Decade

If you want to give your baby a name that transcends this decade, make sure it doesn’t start with Ad-, end with –ley, contain the letter ‘x,’ or honor a dead celebrity.

That’s what Nameberry found when we analyzed the Social Security baby names data of 2016 versus 2006 to identify which names have exploded in use over the past ten years. Then we looked at patterns among these hotter-than-hot names that indicate the major baby name trends right now.

According to our research, Juniper and Jayceon may well prove as emblematic of our times as Jennifer and Jason are of the 1970s. Here is our statistical analysis of the dominant baby name trends of the decade and the hot baby names that influenced them.

Ad- Names for Girls

Adalynn is 31 times as popular now as it was in 2006, followed by Adaline which is 26 times as popular, Addilyn at 21 times, and Adley at 19 times. Add to this the status of Adeline and sisters as the sixth most popular girls’ name of 2016 when all spellings are combined and you have the major baby name trend for girls of the decade.

And this trend will undoubtedly burn brighter before it dims, given that it’s still largely invisible. The most popular form of the name, Adeline, is all the way down at number 63 on the new list of Top 1000 Baby Names, which means that many parents have no idea how widespread the name is.

Lee Names For Boys And Girls

Names that end in the ‘lee’ sound are booming for both girls and boys. Paislee is the third hottest girls’ name, 31 times as popular now as it was a decade ago, along with Blakely, 19 times more popular; Henley, 16 times; and Paisley, 15 times.

More surprising is the companion boom in boys’ names that end with the lee sound. Brantley is the second hottest name for boys, 27 times more popular than it was in 2006, along with Bentley, now 24 times more popular than in 2006; Finnley, 17 times; and Kingsley, 12 times.

Shooting Star Names

Hot young celebrities who manage to stay in the spotlight for more than a reality TV season or two can propel their names into major trends, the way Shirley Temple did in the 1930s or Debbie Reynolds did in the 1950s.

The hottest celebrity baby names of this decade are Isla, as in Fisher, with a 27 times increase in popularity; Leighton, as in Gossip Girl star Meester, up 20 times; Bristol, as in Palin, up 19 times; and Mila, as in Kunis, up 13 times.

On the boys’ side is Jayceon, with 31 times as many babies given that name in 2016 as in 2006. It’s inspired by rapper The Game, who pronounces his name jay-cee-on, though others pronounce the name as jay-son or jay-shawn, making it the perfect heir to former hottie Jason, with new nature name Juniper on the hot list for girls.

Superlative Names

Baby, your name is Legend … literally. Names that tell the world how extraordinary your child is rule today. The name Legend is 18 times more popular for boys now than it was a decade ago, while Major and King are each up 12 times.

Girls are great too, with Royalty, the hottest girls’ name of 2016, up 58 times over its 2006 numbers, and Reign up 13 times.

Tragic Celebrity Surnames

The names of hallowed stars of the past are enjoying a new turn in the limelight as their tragic ends fade from memory.

Two celebrity surnames, Lennon and Monroe, are among the decade’s hottest names for girls, up 19 times and 13 times. The boys’ name that fits this category is Hendrix, as in rocker Jimi, 18 times more popular now than it was in 2006..

For the full list of the hottest names of the decade along with more trends, visit Nameberry.

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Photo Series Shows Kids Enjoying Childhood Without Technology

A stunning photo series is showcasing the joys of a tech-free childhood.

New Zealand photographer and mother of four, Niki Boon, documented her children’s everyday lives in a series she calls “Childhood in the Raw.”

“This project came into being with our decision to educate our children alternatively, at home,” Boon told HuffPost. The family lives in a rural environment without modern electronic devices like TV and smartphones. 

Boon said this lifestyle choice has sparked a lot of questions and criticism from friends, family and strangers. At first, even she and her husband sometimes had doubts. 

“In the beginning, the photos served as a visual document, to record things that the children were doing in a day, to reassure both others and ourselves that there was learning taking place,” the mom explained.

“But as time went on, I became frustrated that the pictures weren’t really telling the story well enough for me. It just wasn’t with enough depth,” she continued. “So I spent many hours and late nights trying to teach myself how to take better pictures, ones that depicted what I was seeing in front of me, and tell the story the way I saw it … and things just evolved from there.”

Boon and her husband have a 12-year-old daughter and three sons, ages 7, 9 and 13. 

“Like all parents we would love our children to be strong in who they are, confident, free thinkers, proactive, independent, resilient, empathetic and happy,” she said. “I hope that, living with the land that we have, that they also gain a healthy respect for the earth, and for the animals and plants that live with us on it.”

The photographer said her family’s alternative, tech-free lifestyle reminds her of her own childhood growing up on a farm with extended family. She told HuffPost she hopes her photos move people in some way, “negative or positive.”

Ultimately, the mom just wants to document the wonders of her kids’ childhood. Said Boon, “I hope they look back on it and smile.”

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Everything Is Exhausting Right Now, And Merriam-Webster Has The Perfect Word For Us

For reasons of its own, the feisty dictionary Merriam-Webster decided to feature “inanition” as its word of the day on May 25, 2017. 

The noun describes “an exhausted condition,” more specifically “the exhausted condition that results from lack of food and water” or, secondarily, “the absence or loss of social, moral, or intellectual vitality or vigor.” 

Thanks to the online dictionary’s justified reputation as a sly political commentator and watchdog, followers were quick to see shade cast by the selection:

 Others made more direct political connections:

Who knows what motivated Merriam-Webster to highlight “inanition” at this moment in history Thursday? We can only speculate.

There’s certainly no confirmation that this feature was meant to tweak President Donald Trump for his reported belief that exercise depletes the human body’s finite reservoir of energy; or for the claim that his “Islamic terrorism” dogwhistle during a recent speech was a flub (”he’s just an exhausted guy,” a White House official told CNN); or for his previous criticism of Hillary Clinton as “low energy,” a claim which now strikes many as hypocritical.

The list of possible reasons goes on: Maybe the featured word was random. Maybe it was intended to serve as a reminder to hydrate during the upcoming warm summer months.

Maybe it was a wink of solidarity to those who feel fatigued by the constant flood of scandalous leaks coming from the White House and the repeated attempts by the administration and Congress to gut healthcare programs, environmental protection measures and other federal programs that many rely on for health and survival. 

One thing we do know, however, is what “inanition” means. Thanks, Merriam-Webster!

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Ranking 93 ‘Star Wars’ Characters (Yes, Even Horrible Jar Jar Binks)

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, editors at HuffPost got together to rank characters in the “Star Wars” universe, from Jar Jar Binks to best. Now, in honor of the franchise’s 40th anniversary, we’re doing it again. Some of those editors have moved on from HuffPost and are now Force Ghosts, but with new additions from “The Force Awakens” and “Rogue One,” updated, the list must be.

This subjective inventory weighed a number of factors — cultural imprint, importance to the story, coolness and whether or not the characters were toys we wanted to own right now as children. Longevity was also taken into account. Some newer characters were excluded but perhaps would be included in future updates as their impact and relevance grows. 

With this list, you’ll disagree. In the comments, let us know. And may the Force be with you. Always.

jar jar

93. Jar Jar Binks (pictured)

92. Saw Gerrera

91. Anakin Skywalker

90. Greedo (who shot first)

89. Nute Gunray

88. Boss Nass

87. Bodhi Rook (pictured)

86. Teedo

85. Watto

84. Characters from the chess board on the Millennium Falcon

83. Daniel Craig’s Stormtrooper

82. Supreme Leader Snoke

81. All power-converter salesmen at Tosche Station

star wars

80. Sebulba (pictured)

79. Oola, Jabba’s dancer

78. Malakili, rancor keeper

77. Chirrut Îmwe

76. Shmi Skywalker

75. Saché

74. Sabé

73. Zam Wesell

72. General Veers

71. Exogorth

star wars

70. Bail Organa (pictured)

69. IG 88

68. Bib Fortuna

67. Orson Krennic

66. Gamorrean Guards

65. Dianoga

64. Plo Koon

63. Admiral Ozzel

62. Unkar Plutt

61. Galen Erso

star wars

60. Uncle Owen (pictured)

59. Aunt Beru (pictured)

58. The Sarlacc

57. Bothan spies

56. Wampa

55. Tauntauns

54. Kit Fisto

53. Bossk

52. Dak Ralter

51. Shaak Ti

50. Jango Fett

49. General Hux (pictured)

48. Cassian Andor

47. Admiral Motti, whose lack of faith was disturbing

46. Jek Porkins

45. Captain Phasma

44. Ki-Adi-Mundi

star wars

43. Count Dooku (pictured)

42. General Grievous

41. Maz Kanata

40. All the Ewoks except Wicket

39. Salacious B. Crumb

38. Jyn Erso (pictured)

37. Imperial Guards

36. K-2SO

35. Poe Dameron

34. Wicket

33. Mace Windu

32. Lobot

31. All the Jawas

30. Greedo (who didn’t shoot first)

29. All the Tusken Raiders

natalie portman

28. Padmé Amidala (pictured)

27. Nien Nunb

26. Figrin D’an and The Modal Nodes

25. Wedge Antilles

24. Finn

23. Mon Mothma

22. Rancor

21. All Stormtroopers

And now, citizens of the universe, here are the top 20 you’re looking for:

 

20. BB-8

Much like C-3PO and R2D2 become the narrative conduit in the original trilogy, BB-8 fills that role in “The Force Awakens.” BB-8 represents that wide-eyed little kid we all tried to re-suppress after the disappointing prequels, who couldn’t help but emerge again in the presence of a resurrected — read: potentially better — “Star Wars” franchise. As hardened “Star Wars” fans, scarred by the saccharine CG-quels, resisting new episodes was understandable. But the second BB-8 let out that sad womp-womp-womp in the desert, convincing Rey to help him, he made it a “Star Wars” film. ― Andy McDonald

19. Grand Moff Tarkin

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It takes a special kind of Moff to hold Darth Vader’s leash. It takes Grand Moff Tarkin. Entrusted with the keys to the first Death Star by Emperor Palpatine, this high-ranking Imperial official was the man who destroyed Alderaan and nearly wiped out the Rebel Alliance at the Battle of Yavin. Unfortunately for the Empire and himself, Luke Skywalker’s X-wing slipped through his fingers as he tightened his grip on the uprising. — Chris Greenberg

18. Kylo Ren

Darth Vader left behind a big cape to fill. And then along came his grandson, the testy and conflicted Kylo Ren. Once a Jedi in training who now wields a frightening crossguard lightsaber, Kylo takes no prisoners, including his own father, Han Solo. Leading a merry band of baddies and unmasking himself with an aplomb that Granddaddy Darth would never dare, Kylo Ren lacks the slick perfection of most “Star Wars” villains. He’s reckless, irascible, sloppy and all the more intimidating for it. His anger is enough to make his own Stormtroopers turn the other way, creating a dynamism that most franchise antagonists don’t capture. He can also deliver a withering insult, as evidenced when he hissed “look how old you’ve become” at Lor San Tekka. With Luke Skywalker re-emerging and Kylo’s conflict with Rey continuing to develop, the Kylo Ren Show is only just starting. ― Matthew Jacobs

17. Luke Skywalker

Luke is the ostensible everyman of the “Star Wars” universe, the unwitting hero thrust into the middle of a galactic battle that raged long before he was even born. So why is he so annoying? In “A New Hope” and “The Empire Strikes Back,” Luke is such a teen he might as well stomp up the stairs and slam the door to his bedroom. In “Return of the Jedi,” his demeanor becomes equal parts smug and cocky, like a college freshman returning to his parents’ house for winter break. It’s all too much. (Meanwhile, Han and Leia are carrying the heavy water for the Rebel Alliance.) Fans might find this controversial, but search your feelings ― you know it to be true. — Christopher Rosen

16. Jabba the Hutt

Jabba’s only notable appearance in the franchise comes in “Return of the Jedi” (sorry, Special Edition Jabba in “A New Hope”), but his Tatooine lair is such a world unto its own that the crime lord has remained one of the franchise’s defining figures. The many creatures who inhabit his cave have become just as much a part of his image as their own, from Bib Fortuna and the green slave woman to a band that rivals the Mos Eisley cantina group. Jabba may be a massive blob, but his spittle has earned its spot in the “Star Wars” canon. — MJ

15. Emperor Palpatine

With the ability to deceive and maintain control over most of the galaxy, Emperor Palpatine was arguably the most powerful character in the “Star Wars” universe. But like many villains, his downfall was the result of his overconfidence and pride. He incorrectly believed that he had enslaved Darth Vader to the point of no return. But while the Emperor was the worst of the worst, he was also … kind of fun? Sometimes you just want to obscure your face in your hoodie and let out an twisted, raspy, “Greetings, young Skywalker!” — AM

14. Admiral Ackbar

If you believe Admiral Ackbar’s significance lies solely in his leading the attack on the second Death Star, stop that line of thinking — IT’S A … pitfall. Part of what makes Ackbar so meaningful to “Star Wars” is that he is one of the highest-ranking military figures in the Rebel Alliance (Supreme Commander) and a non-human. Ackbar’s existence represents precisely the progressive values held by the rebellion in its battle against a Galactic Empire known for its hostility toward non-humans. OK, yes, fine: IT’S A TRAP! — AM

13. Rey

She’s a hero who needs only one name, like Chewbacca or Madonna. But if she had a surname, what would it be? Skywalker? Kenobi? Last name Ever, first name Greatest? Rey’s mysterious past and crazy connection to The Force make her one of the most intriguing characters in the “Star Wars” universe. And she’s a baller. Whenever this orphan-somehow-turned-expert-pilot is on screen, it’s worth all the portions Unkar Plutt could give. All of them! If we had known Rey a little longer, she’d most definitely break the top 10. She is the last Jedi, after all. Wait, isn’t she? Is “Last Jedi” plural? Seriously, who are her parents? Is it Jar Jar? Rey, meesa thinks yousa owe us some answers. ― Bill Bradley

12. C-3PO

In terms of pure comedic relief, there is no better member of the “Star Wars” ensemble than C-3PO. Fluent in “over 6 million forms of communication,” Threepio is one-half of the best dysfunctional multilingual duo in movie history (alongside R2-D2, of course). The gold droid with the heart of a puppy dog and the temperament of an anxious worrywart is vital in getting the Rebels off Hoth and Han out of Jabba the Hutt’s palace. He may be an Anakin Skywalker creation, but he’s more fun than any other “Star Wars” character. Just don’t call him a mindless philosopher, you overweight glob of grease! — MJ

11. Darth Maul

There have been few greater collective nerdgasms than the moment when Darth Maul unleashed the second blade of his double-sided lightsaber. (Look at that thing.) Horn-headed, eyes fire-red with flips for days, Maul is a demon’s whisper who slinks in and out of Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan’s peripherals before their epic final confrontation. Basically a manifestation of pure evil, the Sith Lord’s brief but insidious film stint was so haunting, his image has reached further than just the “Star Wars” universe. — Ryan Kristobak

10. Lando Calrissian 

Hello, what have we here? Lando Calrissian, of course. The true rapscallion of the “Star Wars” universe, Lando was a classic anti-hero in “The Empire Strikes Back.” Full redemption came later in “Return of the Jedi,” but the real reason he’s listed here is because of the way he says “Han” and “Chewbacca.” — CR

9. Qui-Gon Jinn

When the Jedi High Council hands down a decision, the Jedi Order listens without question. Everyone, that is, except for Qui-Gon Jinn. An O.G. Jedi badass, Qui-Gon asked the difficult questions while simultaneously showing love for even the smallest and seemingly most insignificant beings (seriously, he even liked Jar-Jar). Outside his many words of wisdom, we have Jinn to thank for discovering the Chosen One. — RK

8. Chewbacca

Is there a more lovable, oversized fuzzball than Chewbacca? If only we all had a sidekick as loyal as Han Solo’s Wookiee, who’s committed to protecting him after Han is dismissed from the Imperial Navy for refusing to kill Chewie. (We just went expanded universe on you guys.) He’s more than just friendly devotion and animalistic wails, though. Chewbacca convinces Han to turn back when he wants to abandon the Rebels in “A New Hope,” and how would the Millennium Falcon’s hyperdrive functions cooperate without his handiwork? He saved Yoda in “Revenge of the Sith,” and he basically gets the final word (so to speak) in “A New Hope.” He may seem like a “walking carpet,” but The Force would fall apart without our old pal Chewie. — MJ

7. Yoda

What to be said, need be? Yoda is one of the most recognizable characters in all of pop culture. He’s one of the wisest and most powerful of all the Jedi. A speech pattern named after him he has. In “Empire Strikes Back,” he’s introduced as a goofy little green muppet — with the soul of a philosopher. By “Return of the Jedi,” as you sadly watch Yoda fade away into “forever sleep,” you completely forget that he’s made of cloth and latex. That’s when you walk out of the room and tell your friends there’s “something in your eye.” — AM

6. R2-D2

The case can be made that with a few bloops and bleeps, R2-D2 is the most charming member of the “Star Wars” universe. The extremely well put-together droid is sassy in a way that makes him endearing — he doesn’t put up with C-3PO’s antics, for instance, and displays no fear in the face of the evil Empire. He’s also loyal: look at how hard he works to find Obi-Wan in “Episode IV” as evidence. Speaking of which: Without R2-D2’s bravery, would the events of “A New Hope” even occur? If Princess Leia had given the Death Star plans to C-3PO, we’d all be wearing drab grey uniforms and worshiping at the feet of Darth Vader. Hero status: legit. — CR

5. Boba Fett

It’s one thing to have a lot of great lines or amazing appearances in a film, but it’s quite another to have almost zero dialogue, just a handful of scenes, and still be seen as one of the most terrific characters in the entire series. But that’s Boba Fett. When even Darth Vader shows a modicum of respect for you, that’s saying something. And though the prequels killed his tough-guy image a bit — and the original trilogy, well, just killed him altogether, pre-expanded universe — Boba Fett is a character whose likeness is forever canonized. And not by George Lucas or some poorly conceived prequels, but by the fans. Like his Mandalorian armor, Fett’s legend is not easily compromised. — AM

4. Obi-Wan Kenobi

From the first moment we see him as a Padawan to his days in recluse as Ben Kenobi, Obi-Wan’s resolve, patience and excellent lightsaber skills make him one of the most important Jedis to ever exist. Look at this resume: He was the first Jedi to defeat a Sith Lord in approximately 1,000 years, routing on Darth Maul when all hope seemed lost. He conquers Anakin in combat, and despite all of the egregious actions his former Padawan has undertaken ― younglings, guys, Anakin killed younglings ― Obi-Wan chooses not to end his pupil’s life because Obi-Wan’s love runs too deep for his friend. In the end, Obi-Wan sacrifices his life so Luke can become the Jedi he was destined to be. True, compassionate and genuinely good, Obi-Wan is what makes a man a man. — RK

3. Leia Organa

Rebel. Politician. Soldier. Diplomat. Princess. Leia Organa is the woman that women want to be and that sibling Jedi and smugglers want to be with. From the moment her ship, Tantive IV, enters the screen carrying those stolen plans in “A New Hope,” this fearless and feisty heroine goes where most Galactic males feared to tread. Though she may look the part of the damsel, Leia doesn’t do distress, even when she’s in grave danger. She withstands Darth Vader’s torture on the first Death Star and gets fatal revenge on Jabba The Hutt for objectifying her with that metal bikini. A one-woman committee for change in the galaxy, Leia turns out to be Force-sensitive. — CG

2. Darth Vader

The first time Darth Vader ever appeared onscreen, he was cloaked in a haze of white exhaust from a Stormtrooper shootout. As his black cape comes into view, everyone flees — and one of cinema’s most iconic villains is born. There may be no movie character more synonymous with a few bars of music than Darth Vader is with the Imperial March. Over the course of the original “Star Wars” trilogy (we’re not talking about Anakin Skywalker here), Darth Vader’s guttural voice and masked visage gave us many of the franchise’s most memorable quotes (“I find your lack of faith disturbing”) and introduced the most terrifying way to die in screen history. Vader ranks behind only Hannibal Lecter and Norman Bates on AFI’s list of the greatest movie villains of all time, but surely neither of the other two has sold more than his body weight in toys and memorabilia. Impressive. Most impressive. — MJ

1. Han Solo

Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be smugglers. Don’t let ‘em fire blasters and drive that old Millennium Falcon. Make ‘em be Jedi and Imperial Governors and such. Unless, of course, you want them to be like Han Solo. A scoundrel with a heart of gold, Solo is the dashing, world(s)-weary cynic who shoots first and fixes the hyperdrive later. He may have joined up with the Rebellion for the paycheck and not the ideals, but that doesn’t stop him from helping to destroy a few Death Stars along the way. Don’t worry, he knows you love him. — CG

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