With more than 65 million people in the United States identifying as Hispanic, this group is our country’s fastest-growing racial or ethnic minority. Throughout this month, we celebrate their culture and contributions to our society.
But even as we come together in communities, schools and businesses to honor this month and the broader community of Latinos, there is still work to be done. For example, we continue to struggle with how best to talk about these individuals and groups. The terms Hispanic, Latino, Latina and Latinx — and other variants like Spanish and Span-American — are all used, but there is no one term that can encompass the diverse cultures that make up this group.
When it comes to naming these individuals and groups, we must be aware of how certain terms can alienate and exclude, experts say. Hispanic is particularly problematic, says Luisa Godinez-Puig, an equity scholar with nonprofit research organization Urban Institute. She says it erases the centuries of pre-Columbian history, culture and civilizations that existed before European colonization in a way that can be upsetting for many who are not white.
The word is also problematic because it implies that Latin Americans were somehow foreigners or invaders, which is not true for any racial or ethnic minority in America, Godinez-Puig adds. In addition, Hispanic is associated with the Spanish language and culture, which can be off-putting to those whose primary language is not Spanish.
That’s why she recommends using the non-gendered Latinx, which can be seen as more inclusive and a way to avoid limiting the diversity of the community. She also notes that the word is often embraced by youth and companies, including Disney, which is launching its first live-action Latino characters — Mirabel and Bruno — at its Magic Kingdom theme park this month.
Regardless of the term you prefer, there are resources to help students and families learn about Hispanic Heritage Month and the wider community. The National Educator’s Association has compiled a list of lessons and activities by grade level and the Smithsonian has a website (Open external link) dedicated to its collection of Latino resources. PBS has an extensive collection of Hispanic American documentaries — including a look at labor activist Dolores Huerta.
As we recognize Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s remember the courage and valor of these men and women who have served our nation, many in difficult times and conditions. Their sacrifices have helped our country and continue to strengthen our democracy, Godinez-Puig says. And let’s keep in mind the importance of educating our students about the full breadth of this vibrant and dynamic community. And in 2022, the Smithsonian will open its doors to a National Museum of the American Latino, which Congress passed bipartisan legislation to build and establish.