A passionate young artist determined to carve a future for himself amidst social and familial challenges, he shares a deep bond with Tish.

Tish’s witty and supportive older sister, she plays a protective role within her family and uses her connections to assist them.

The adaptable and supportive mother of Tish and Ernestine, she lends her strength to protect her family and guides them through difficult times.

A once-drifting young man transformed by marriage into a committed father and husband, he supports his family by any means necessary.

A conservative woman whose quest for respectability influences her relationship with her family and affects her household dynamics.

Father to Fonny, he faces life's challenges with destructive responses and struggles with personal demons and family pressures.

A young Puerto Rican woman whose life becomes ensnared in a larger legal and social injustice, she represents vulnerability within the system.

A law enforcement officer who embodies the racial tensions and authority challenges within the narrative.

Fonny's lawyer, of European descent, who becomes deeply invested in the case against racial injustice in the legal system.

A friend and foil to Fonny whose life is deeply affected by his experiences within the criminal justice system.