LATINO

Defining Latinos

• Latino: Reflects the Latin American origin of the population.  This term is commonly used bhy the Latino population to describe themselves.
•  Hispanic : The United States federal government created the name Hispanic to describe a diverse population with a connection  to the Spanish language, culture, or from a Spanish speaking country. 

Population:

•  Latinos are the fastest growing minority group
• There are about 226,000 Latinos in Minnesota and 17,200 in Dakota County

Why Minnesota:

• Employment
• Education
• Reunite with family
• Invitation by employers
• Better economic conditions

Language:

• Spanish is primary language
• Many are bi-lingual and speak Spanish and English
• Often children are fluent in English and can assist elders in translation
• Prefer oral language
• Have formal and informal discourse in language
• Tend to be reserved in public speaking (especially when in second language)

Family Values:

• The family is the most important social unit
• Have a moral responsibility to help their family
• Self-sacrifice to make sure family is cared for
• High respect for elders and authority
• Hard workers

 Etiquette:

• Flexible and relaxed about time
• Formal in treatment and greetings of others
• Live in the present

Religion:

• Majority are Roman Catholic
• Supernatural concept is common

Holidays:

•  Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead, November 2)
• Christmas
• New Years Day
• El dia de los Reyes (the Epiphany, January 5)
• Pascua (Easter)
• Cinco de Mayo
• Dia del Nino (April 30)
• Dia de las Madres (May 10)
• El Quinceanero/a
• Weddings