Understanding the Meaning Behind the Term 'LatinX'
Discover the origins and significance of the term LatinX, a modern alternative to Hispanic and Latino, and explore its evolving role in society.
CloseEmilia Benton is a seasoned writer and editor whose articles have appeared in Women’s Health, SHAPE, Prevention, and other prominent publications.
Across the United States, many people recognize the labels “Hispanic” and “Latino/Latina” as identifiers for individuals of Latin American heritage.
In recent years, however, the term “Latinx” has gained attention in mainstream media and official contexts as a gender-neutral alternative to these traditional terms.
But what exactly does Latinx represent, who does it include, and is it becoming the preferred descriptor within this diverse community?
What Does Latinx Mean?
The word Latinx is a contemporary, inclusive term that embraces gender neutrality and non-binary identities. It is used to refer to Americans with Latin American or Spanish roots, aiming to replace the gendered terms “Hispanic” and “Latino/Latina.”
Latinx has gained traction in recent years across news outlets, entertainment platforms, academic institutions, and corporate environments.
This term often resonates in contexts where the Latin American population is notably young and racially diverse.
Despite aligning with progressive values embraced by younger generations, Latinx has met with mixed reactions and some hesitation, especially from members of the community it seeks to represent.
Origins and Evolution
The designation “Hispanic” entered U.S. government usage in the 1970s, introduced to aid Mexican-American and other Hispanic groups in federal data collection efforts.
However, this term faced criticism for its implication of a Spanish heritage that does not apply to many within the group.
In response, the 1990s saw the rise of “Latino” as a more geographically inclusive label, covering Central and South Americans as well as Caribbean populations, and it continues to appear alongside “Hispanic” in U.S. Census data.
The term Latinx emerged in the early 2000s, initially gaining visibility through online platforms. Its usage notably increased after the tragic 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida, which was hosting a Latin-themed event at the time.
Since then, Latinx has grown in popularity among celebrities, politicians, educational bodies, and various organizations.
When Should You Use Latinx?
Interestingly, those most directly represented by the term Latinx are often the least likely to adopt it themselves.
A 2019 Pew Research Center study revealed that only 23% of Hispanic individuals were familiar with the term, and a mere 3% actually used it.
Awareness is higher among younger Hispanics aged 18 to 29, and among U.S.-born individuals, especially those who are bilingual or primarily English speakers, compared to foreign-born or predominantly Spanish-speaking populations.
When Unsure, Simply Ask
If you’re not part of the Latin American or Hispanic community and want to use a term to describe someone, the best approach is to ask how they prefer to be identified.
Some members of the Latin American community feel that the push for Latinx comes mainly from White Americans and public figures, and while well-intentioned, it may unintentionally deepen divisions by altering traditional Spanish language norms.
The Impact of Using 'Latinx'
Given that Spanish is a gendered language, it is understandable that native speakers might hesitate to embrace “Latinx,” as language structure is deeply tied to cultural heritage.
Were Latinx to become widespread in Spanish-speaking countries, it could prompt efforts to neutralize other gendered terms, such as “la maestra” and “el maestro” (female and male teacher), or “Mexicano” and “Mexicana” (Mexican man and woman).
Spanish has been critiqued for its inherent sexism, as masculine forms are often the default even when referring to groups with majority females (e.g., “los maestros” for a mostly female group of teachers). However, a full linguistic overhaul to remove gendered terms is unlikely and would probably face significant resistance.
Notably, ongoing data from Pew Research Center indicates that 50% of Hispanic or Latin American individuals familiar with Latinx prefer the term Hispanic to describe their community.
Potential Drawbacks of Not Using Latinx
Those who embrace the term Latinx often identify as feminists or belong to the LGBTQ+ community.
Again, the best practice is to ask individuals how they wish to be identified, especially if they belong to marginalized groups within the Latin American demographic.
People who identify as non-binary and use pronouns like “they” may be more inclined to prefer Latinx as their descriptor.
Insights from Verywell
Experts suggest that using Latinx can foster solidarity with historically marginalized groups, but it’s crucial to listen to those directly affected before adopting the term widely.
Respectful communication, including asking for personal preferences, reduces the risk of offense and helps affirm mutual respect.
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Pew Research Center. 3. Views on Latinx as a pan-ethnic term for U.S. Hispanics.
The Atlantic. Why Latinx can’t catch on.
NPR. Latinx is a term many still can’t embrace.
The New York Times. Another hot take on the term ‘Latinx’.
USA Today. Progressives, Hispanics are not “Latinx.” Stop trying to Anglicize our Spanish language.
Torres L. Latinx?. Lat Stud. 2018;16:283–285. doi:10.1057/s41276-018-0142-y
By Emilia Benton
Emilia Benton is a writer and editor whose work has been featured in Women’s Health, SHAPE, Prevention, and more.
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