Who are you calling LatinX? It has sparked attempts to address gender inclusivity within the broader Latino community,
Myself, I answer to Hispanic and or Lanino, in contrast to the binary gender. Pew Research Center's analysis provides valuable insights
Here are the key findings from Pew Research on who is more likely to use the term:
Younger Generations
- Age is a significant factor: The term "Latinx" is most commonly used by younger individuals. Among U.S. adults who identify as Hispanic or Latino, adults under 30 are the most likely to have used or be familiar with the term. In fact, about 1 in 5 younger Latinos (ages 18-29) report using "Latinx" to describe themselves.
- This contrasts with older generations, where the usage significantly drops, especially among those aged 50 and above.
Education Levels
- College-educated Latinos are also more likely to use the term. Research shows that those with a college degree or higher are more familiar with and likely to use "Latinx" than those with less formal education. This is likely tied to the term’s emergence in academic and activist circles, where issues of gender inclusivity are more commonly discussed.
Urban vs. Rural Politics
- Urban areas tend to have higher usage rates of the term "Latinx" compared to rural areas. This is partly due to the more progressive cultural climate in urban environments, where gender inclusivity and diverse identities are often emphasized.
- In contrast, individuals living in more conservative, rural areas are less likely to use or adopt the term, possibly due to cultural norms and traditions around gender. There is also a notable political divide in the use of "Latinx." Those who identify as more liberal or progressive are far more likely to adopt the term than those who lean conservative. The term "Latinx" has become associated with progressive social movements, particularly in the context of gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and social justice.
Genders
- Interestingly, non-binary or gender nonconforming individuals within the Latino community are more likely to embrace "Latinx" as a way to describe themselves, as it allows for an expression of gender that goes beyond the male/female dichotomy. This group represents a small but growing segment of the population that feels the need for a more inclusive term.
Hispanic vs. Latino Identification
- There's also a subtle distinction between the terms "Latino" and "Hispanic." People who identify as "Latino" or "Latina" are generally less likely to use "Latinx," with many preferring the more traditional terms. However, people who embrace a more pan-ethnic, inclusive label (i.e., those who feel connected to both Latin American and Spanish roots) may be more inclined to adopt the term "Latinx."
Summary of Who Uses Latinx:
- Younger Latinos (particularly those under 30)
- College-educated Latinos
- Urban dwellers
- Politically progressive or liberal individuals
- Gender nonconforming or non-binary individuals
Despite these patterns, the overall adoption of "Latinx" remains relatively low among the broader U.S. Hispanic or Latino population, with many still preferring more traditional terms like "Latino" or "Hispanic." The term's future usage will likely continue to evolve as cultural and generational shifts unfold.
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