LatinosLatinas

Latinos and Latinas are demographic terms used to refer to people with origins in Latin America or descent from Latin American communities. In English-language contexts, Latino generally denotes men or a mixed-gender group, while Latina refers to women; combined forms such as “Latinos and Latinas” or “Latinos/Latinas” are used to express gender-inclusive references. The terms are used differently in the United States and Latin American countries and are distinct from Hispanic, which centers on Spanish-speaking heritage rather than geographic origin.

Latino derives from Spanish and is the masculine form; Latina is the feminine form. The plural forms Latinos and Latinas indicate groups by gender. The gender-inclusive “Latinx” emerged in the United States in the early 21st century to avoid gender specification, but adoption is uneven and debated. Some people and institutions prefer the traditional Latino/Latina terms or the slash form (Latino/a) to acknowledge multiple gender identities, while others use an umbrella “Latino” in a broader sense.

Demographically, Latinos and Latinas in the United States constitute a large and diverse population, with roots in Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Dominican, Central American, South American, and other communities. They are distributed across states and urban and rural areas, with varied generations, immigration histories, and linguistic practices that influence cultural expression and identity.

Cultural and social contexts surrounding these terms intersect ethnicity with race, nationality, and language. Representation in media, politics, education, and research continues to evolve, reflecting ongoing discussions about inclusivity, terminology, and regional differences. Personal preference, community norms, and specific contexts often shape which label is used.