Latino or Hispanic?

Have you ever wondered why some people use the term "Hispanics" and others use "Latinos" when they refer to Spanish speaking people? 

What is the difference between the two terms?

Well, this is what it is... 

"Hispanic" refers to region, not race. This term should be use to refer to people whose origins are Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central or South American. Back in the day, areas conquered by the Spaniards were considered part of a region called Hispaniola, which is where the term came from.

"Latino" refers more to a cultural aspect of a person. You can be considered a Latino even if you were born in the U.S. As long as your parents or grandparents are from Latin American origin and you have been taught about the Latin American culture.

Being a Latino doesn't necessarily means being a Spanish speaking person. However, most people will consider you a true Latino if you speak Spanish or Portuguese. (Brazilians speak Portuguese).

Here’s a great video that talks about the difference of the two terms and also shows how people normally use the terms.

Some things to consider when using either of these terms or Spanish-speaking people:

1. Don’t assume that all Hispanics or Latinos speak Spanish. Brazilians speak Portuguese.  

2. Don’t call every Spanish-speaking person Mexican. Even though Mexicans are the biggest Hispanic group in the U.S. generally Hispanics that live in the U.S. prefer to be called by their nationality. Venezuelan, Puerto Rican, Colombian, Peruvian etc.

3. Don’t assume that if a person has the “looks” of a Latino, they are Latinos or vice versa.

4. When referring to both men and Women use “Latinos”. When referring to only women use “Latina”.

5. Do not call Hispanics or Latinos “Spanish”. Spanish is a language, not a race or ethnicity; unless you are refering to a person from Spain. (Spanish is their nationality).

 



Images from Google images