1. LA CULTURA LATINA

2. The Latino Population: “Latino” vs. “Hispanic”
Hispanic is a term created by the U.S. federal government in the early 1970s in an attempt to provide a common denominator to a large, but diverse, population with connection to the Spanish language or culture from a Spanish- speaking country
LATINO derives from the indigenous people of the Americas (Mexico, Central America, and South America)
MEXICAN refers to all who are of Mexican citizens
CHICANO refers an American whose parents or grandparents came from Mexico

3. The Latino Population: Fastest Growing Population
According to American Community Survey by U.S. Census Bureau:
In 1990 Latino population = 22.4 million
In 2000 Latino population = 35.3 million
2004 Latino population = 40.5 million; representing 14.2% of U.S. population
2010 Latino population = 53 million people;representing 16.9% of U.S. population
Projection: By the year 2050, 1 of 4 American residents will be of Latino descent!!

4. The Latino Population: Diverse group
More than 20 different countries
Varying socio-cultural backgrounds
Several different Spanish dialects
72% 1st generation Latinos speak Spanish
78% 3rd generation older speak English as primary
Note:
Don’t assume b/c a person has Latino sounding surname they speak Spanish!

5. The Latino Population: Diverse group
58.5% Mexico
9.6% Puerto Rico
4.8% Central America
3.8% South America
3.5% Cuba
2.2% Dominican Republic
.3% Spain
Remaining 17.3% = “all other”

6. Etiquette
Spanish speakers tend toward formality in their treatment of one another. A firm handshake is a common practice between people as greeting and for leave-taking. A hug and a light kiss on a cheek are also common greeting practices. The Spanish language provides forms of formal and nonformal address
In nonformal settings, conversations between Spanish speakers are usually loud, fast, and adorned with animated gestures and body language to better convey points.
Hispanics tend to be more relaxed and flexible about time and punctuality than U.S. people. For instance, people who are invited for an 8 a.m. event may not begin to arrive until 8:30 a.m. or later. Within the Hispanic community, not being on time is a socially acceptable behavior.

7. Key Points on Latino Culture
Family is everything
They take care of each other, live near/with each other, socialize together. Clan-like.
Work hard, play hard
- They respect hard work and do not balk at manual labor Entertainment is a priority; music, dance, food, festivals, ceremonies.
Religion and traditions are important
- Typically Roman Catholic
- Faith is not as essential, but following tradition is
Education is valued
- Immigrated for better education and opportunity.
- Teachers are highly respected

8. LA CULTURA LATINA
PREGUNTAS