Why Are We Still Latinos/as and Not Latinx? Reflections on the Use of Gender-neutral Terms at CUNY and Beyond

The terms used to describe the heterogeneous peoples of Latin American in the United States have always been subjected to controversies. The Spanish language is often an important common denominator among this complex group, yet the newest term “Latinx” embodies a gender-neutrality that does not align with the gendered grammar of the language.

This presentation seeks to situate the conversation here at CUNY, by drawing from data of students who were given the opportunity to choose their preferred label, and questions asking whether this has shifted over time or is aligned with the categorization their parents might use.

Results show that students did not choose gender-neutral language to describe their ethnic Latino/a identity, and this will be used as a springboard for further reflection and discussion.

Speakers:
- Karen Flórez, DrPH MPH
Associate Professor, Department of Environmental, Occupational and Geospatial Sciences
CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy

- Anahí Viladrich, PhD
Professor, Sociology, Anthropology & Community Health & Social Sciences
Queens College, The Graduate Center & The Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy

- Ivonne Quiroz,
Doctoral Student, Community Health and Health Policy
CUNY School of Public Health

The event is open to all CUNY SPS students, faculty and staff.

If you have any questions about the workshop, please contact us.