Latinx and Complex

Grade Level: 8-12

Time: 60 Minutes

Essential Question

What do Hispanic, Latino/a, Latinx/e, and Afro-Latino/a/x/e mean and how can we examine Latinx identity in an intersectional way?

About This Lesson

This lesson explores the origins and meanings of the terms Hispanic, Latino/a, Latinx/e, and Afro-Latino/a/x/e to critically understand the diversity within the Latino community. Research shows that about 68% of Latinos in the U.S. identify as Hispanic, while a significant portion prefers the term Latino/a or Latinx, reflecting personal and cultural preferences (Pew Research Center, 2020). Generational perspectives significantly influence how these identities are perceived. Among immigrant Latinos, 65% identify with their country of origin, but this drops to 36% for second-generation Latinos and just 26% for those in the third generation or higher, who are more likely to identify as "American" ​(Pew Research Center). This lesson will broaden students’ understanding of the relationship between identity and language and foster a deeper appreciation for the nuances within the Latino community