Latino or Hispanic?

Several years ago, Latino and Hispanic organizations held a conference to discuss the spectrum of individuals moving into the Birmingham area that fit the definition of Latino or Hispanic. They had moved to Alabama from Latin American countries and from different parts of the U.S. Some were native Spanish speakers, some spoke indigenous languages, others spoke English and some spoke several languages. The opinions about the terms were as diverse as the people at the conference. An article in the Boston Globe captures the debate about the terms. http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2004/01/25/latino_hispanic_which_is_it/.

Because a number of people work in situations where they have to give statistics, they need to know what term to use. I try to encourage them to use the terms that the federal government requires for statistical purposes, but they should understand that individuals and groups of individuals do not necessarily agree with these terms. If at all possible, take the time to build a relationship and understand what an individual prefers to be called which is probably just his or her name. On the other hand, understand that sometimes people live by cultural norms and similarities that extend beyond the individual. At times they may be linked to a group. This does not mean that we should stereotype people or hold them to fixed concepts, but understand and value the uniqueness that they bring into our lives and workplaces.

Fiesta in Birmingham, AL on Last Saturday

In the late '90's, the editor of the Birmingham Weekly, asked a number of us to predict what Birmingham would be like in the year 2020. One prediction I made was that Birmingham would be home to a lot more Spanish speakers and English speaking people of Hispanic/Latino descent. Fiesta, an event that has grown astronomically, is just one indication of the demographic shifts taking place in Birmingham. There were people representing the U.S. and a number of Latin American countries as a concluding event to Hispanic Heritage Month.

Food for thought: Which term is appropriate--Latino or Hispanic? Stay tuned for the next entry...