Deconstructing some Latin misconceptions

In the U.S., “Hispanic” and “Latino” are often misunderstood as a race or a singular culture. In reality, Latino identity spans diverse countries, ethnicities, and traditions. Being Hispanic doesn’t make you white, Asian, black, Pacific Islander, or anything in between. I see commonly someone will say, “I’m not white; I’m Puerto Rican,” or “I’m not black; I’m Dominican.” Two things can be true at the same time. While these people may be ethnically/nationally Latino, they still fall into racial groups coming from Europe, Africa, Asia, and indigenous America.

A big misconception is equating all things Latino with Mexico. While Mexico’s cultural influence is significant, Latino culture includes much more, from Peruvian cuisine to the Caribbean’s reggaetón and dembow. Importantly, “Latino” is not a race; Latinos can be Black, white, Indigenous, Asian, or mixed.

Dominicans, for instance, often embrace their Afro-Caribbean roots, while Puerto Ricans celebrate a blend of Taíno, African, and Spanish heritage. Both groups are key to the Latino story, yet they are often overshadowed by stereotypes.

The Caribbean also dominates the Latin music scene. Reggaetón, born in Puerto Rico, and Dominican dembow dominate playlists worldwide, especially because of well-known artists like Bad Bunny and El Alfa, whom people know even if they don’t speak Spanish. Still, these contributions are often generalized as Latino or “Mexican music,” erasing their specific cultural origins.

Even Latin food faces a great deal of simplification. While tacos are beloved, dishes like Puerto Rican mofongo and Dominican sancocho showcase the culinary variety within the Latino community. Reducing Latino identity to a single narrative erases its complexity, and marginalized communities, particularly Black Latinos, who tend to defy stereotypes. Embracing the diversity of Latin communities means recognizing its rich mix of cultures, histories, and traditions.