Latino vs. Hispanic: Understanding the Difference
When discussing immigrants in the U.S., especially those from South America, you’ll often hear the terms “Latino” and “Hispanic” used interchangeably. However, many people aren’t fully aware of what these terms truly mean.
Understanding the nuances between them is key to respecting the diverse identities they represent. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the difference between Hispanic and Latino?” this guide will help clarify the distinction.
What Does Hispanic Refer To?
The word “Hispanic” refers to the people hailing from Spanish-speaking Latin American countries. It can describe those born and raised in Caribbean countries or territories or Spain. However, the term is also associated with Spanish speakers.
Hispanic refers to a language shared by Spanish-speaking individuals, rather than a shared geography or culture. That said, Hispanic people may come from diverse racial and national backgrounds. If one of your friends is Spanish and a native speaker, they’re considered to be Hispanic.
What Does Latino Mean?
In contrast, Latino is a term linked to geography. It describes people born and raised in Latin America, encompassing Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. Anyone with roots in these nations is considered Latino, regardless of their race. Therefore, we can refer to Brazilian people as Latino because they’re from Latin America.
One thing to remember, though, is that people are debating whether people in the Caribbean identify as Latino. It’s because some Latin American countries have a national language other than Spanish.
Let’s take Haitians as an example: they’re not considered Latino, although they grew up in a Latin American country. There’s also Jamaica, an English-speaking country excluded from lists of Latin American nations. Jamaicans don’t consider themselves Latino.
Conversely, the Bahamas, Curaçao, and Dominica are often regarded as Caribbean countries, rather than Latin American countries. There’s a catch, though: people from these nations aren’t considered Latino or Hispanic.
Can Latino People Identify As Hispanic?
Latino people can also identify as Hispanic, although some aren’t referred to as such. Brazilians are Latino, but they’re not Hispanic because Brazil was under Portuguese rule. Additionally, the country’s national language is Portuguese, not Spanish. Verywell Mind notes that most people identify as Brazilian instead of Latino.
How Are Both Terms Used in Various Locations?
The difference between Latino and Hispanic extends to geography, with urban and coastal areas using the former. Those living in rural areas tend to use Hispanic more than others.
However, some locations go beyond this leaning. Florida mostly favors and uses the term "Hispanic" to describe its residents originating from Latin America.
When Were the Terms 'Hispanic' and 'Latino' First Used?
Hispanics and Latinos have existed for centuries, but the terms were not widely used until they were first mentioned in the U.S. Census.
The 1960s had Mexican-Americans in the Southwest and Puerto Ricans on the East Coast experiencing poverty and discrimination. At the time, Latino communities tackling both issues together created a new perspective and helped the government identify these groups.
For the 1980 census, respondents were asked if they were of Spanish or Hispanic ethnicity. Moreover, they could specify their race: White, Black, Asian, Native American, Pacific Islander, or another race. Twenty years later, the U.S. census included the term Latino on the list of ethnicities. State authorities also started to use Hispanic and Latino on driver’s licenses, birth certificates, school registration forms, and other important documents.
A Note on Latinx
While all Latin America-born individuals are labeled as Latino, the term Latinx has been introduced as an LGBTQIA+ and gender-inclusive alternative. Still, most people choose to use Latino.
It’s also worth noting that the use of Latinx remains highly debatable. Some say it’s more inclusive; others think it’s trying to Anglicize the Spanish language.
How Are Hispanic & Latino Terms Used in Media & Pop Culture?
Pop culture and the media have connected Hispanic and Latino communities, making them more well-known and recognized. Both are highlighted in Spanish-language content and by Spanish media outlets and online communities.
More often than not, the media uses Latino when featuring Latino communities. Hispanics’ connection to language is a possible reason for this preference. In addition, Latino generally describes people, music, culture, and other aspects. It’s even suggested that the term feels more inclusive.
Do People Describe Themselves As Hispanic or Latino?
Many Hispanic people and Latinos describe their identity in several different ways.
- Hispanic
- Latino or Latina
- Latinx
Others identify themselves by their country of origin or use a hyphenated term. For example, someone might identify as Colombian-American, Cuban-American, or Guatemalan.
Some Hispanic and Latino people living in the U.S. identify themselves as Americans.
Overall, these preferences demonstrate the personal and multifaceted nature of cultural identities. Several of the terms we’ve mentioned make people feel more connected to their roots. Hispanic and Latino may be important to research efforts, government policy, and representation, but they only show a glimpse of Latin America’s rich and diverse heritage.
Why Does the Difference Between the Two Terms Matter?
Picture this: You’ve got a new neighbor coming from Latin America, and you’re curious about their ethnicity. When you understand the difference between Hispanic and Latino, you won’t jump to misguided conclusions about one’s identity. Communicating with Hispanic and Latino communities in situations like Argentina’s business culture becomes easier as well.
Using the right terms can also help improve data collection, strengthen public policy, and boost Hispanic and Latino representation. More importantly, it encourages us to acknowledge Hispanic, Latino, and Latin American identities. This way, we can fight the harmful stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding them.
Tip: Avoid asking someone about their ethnicity unless it’s mentioned during your conversation. This is especially important as many Hispanic people and Latinos live in the U.S.
Recognize the Unique Identities of Latino Communities
The nuances associated with the terms "Latino" and "Hispanic" influence cultural identity, inclusion, and representation. In countries with diverse societies like the U.S., it’s best to describe Latino and Hispanic people in clear, accurate terms.
Whether you’re studying, working, or exploring Latino culture, understanding the difference between "Latino" and "Hispanic" will help you comprehend the identities associated with these terms. Finally, it reminds us that a person with a wonderful story hides behind every label, and recognizing and respecting their individuality brings us closer to them.
Ready to connect with Latino communities near you? Visit United Tribes’ main community page today and click on any of the featured countries, or visit our blog for more helpful guides to Latino culture.
