Hispanic? Latino? Mexicano? Chicano? Does It Matter?
Black African-Americans (I usually make this distinction to distinguish from white African-Americans such as golfer Ernie Els and several CEO friends I know who like to a joke of being white African Americans—Els does not) are having an interesting conversation in the national media these days; Latinos are having the same conversation except online and in various closed door meetings. The conversation goes something like this.
What is our national strategy to achieve what we want (generally defined as some position on a particular policy issue)? Do we sit outside of the system and throw bricks and insults, or do we join the system and eventually end up becoming apologists for the large corporations and governing structures that together dominate American political economy? If the latter strategy is deemed appropriate, what does this make President Obama, Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, and Eric Holder? Uncle Toms, Tíos Tomás? If this is the case, then “black” becomes a relative term and is a mantle reserved for the dispossessed and radicals.
This discussion among Latinos follows somewhat the same lines with a couple of twists. Some folks get all upset or proud — depending upon the context — when they are identified as Hispanics, Latinos, Raza, Chicano, mexicanos, and so forth. It seems that one’s level of ethnic consciousness depends upon a combination of one’s personal choice and what has been thrust upon them based upon social class and/or occupation.
If one occupies a high level position in government or the corporate sector then one is identified as a Hispanic. Latino appears reserved for intellectuals and most spokespersons. mexicano is reserved for those who see themselves culturally bound to their mother country—this holds true for cubanos, puertorriqueños, dominicanos, and so forth. Finally, Chicano, for those of Mexican descent only, is used by those who find their identity in their indian (Aztec, Maya, and so forth) roots.
So, to address the original question, “Who speaks for Latinos?”
The answer is not easy because of the diverse nature of our community. Underlying this is political ideology — Hispanics are seen or see themselves as conservative, Latinos define themselves as progressives, and Mexicanos/Chicanos more ethnocentric.
Given this diversity it’s almost impossible for us to have our feelings known and our voices heard on various public policy issues. Most importantly, those in power know and understand that we are a people divided by culture and language so there really isn’t any need to listen to us even if we are the largest minority group in the United States.
If we want to be heard or have influence over such areas as immigration or health policy then be better learn to speak with one voice.
Dr. Henry Flores is a professor of Political Science and Dean of the Graduate School at St. Mary’s University, in San Antonio, Texas.
[Photo By AlishaV]