Why Are Portuguese Not Considered Latinos Despite Speaking a Latin-Derived Language?

Introduction

There seems to be a common confusion surrounding the classification of Portuguese speakers within the broader Latinx identity. While it is true that Portuguese shares a Latin origin, the term 'Latino' is not as simple as it might appear at first glance. This confusion often arises from a lack of understanding of the definition and classification of the terms 'Latino,' 'Hispanic,' and 'Latinx.'

The Definition of 'Latino'

Strict Definition: The term 'Latino' is short for latinoamericano, which translates to 'Latin American.' It specifically refers to individuals or groups from countries in the Americas, excluding our own. This classification is based on geographic and cultural proximity to Spanish-speaking countries.

Official US Census Category: The U.S. Census Bureau uses the term "Hispanic or Latino" to include individuals who have origins in Spanish-speaking countries. However, they also include people from Portugal, Spain, and some South American countries like Brazil under the term "Hispanic," despite the differences in language and culture. This official categorization often causes confusion, especially for Portuguese speakers.

The Importance of Context

Geographic Considerations: In many parts of the Americas, the term 'Latino' is used broadly to include people from various European and indigenous backgrounds. It is not limited to those who primarily speak Spanish, but rather encompasses a wide range of cultural and linguistic identities.

Personal Identity: The term 'Latino' is often used in North America to denote people from Spanish-speaking countries. However, this does not mean that every Portuguese-speaking individual self-identifies as Latino. The term is more about cultural and linguistic connections rather than language alone.

National Identity: In countries like Brazil, the official census classifies Portuguese speakers as 'Latino.' Yet, in many other Latin American countries, people of Portuguese descent may not identify with the term 'Latino,' preferring instead to align with national or cultural identities.

Portuguese Speakers vs. Latinx Identity

North American Perspective: In North America, particularly in the United States, people tend to categorize Portuguese speakers as 'Hispanic' for Census purposes. However, this classification is more aligned with geographical and cultural connections rather than linguistic ones. The term 'Hispanic' emphasizes the shared experiences and historical connections between people from Spanish-speaking countries, which includes Portuguese speakers from Brazil.

South American Perspective: In many South American countries, people of Portuguese descent may not identify as 'Latino' because of their historical, cultural, and political differences with Spanish-speaking countries. They may prefer to identify as Portuguese-speaking Brazilians or hold onto their national identity.

Conclusion

Despite sharing a Latin origin, Portuguese speakers are not always considered 'Latino' in the North American context. This is due to the official classification by the U.S. Census Bureau and the broader cultural and linguistic identification.

For those who speak Portuguese and want to assert their identity within the Latinx community, it is important to understand the nuances of these terms and how they are used in different contexts. Whether you identify as 'Latino' or prefer to highlight your specific cultural and linguistic heritage, it ultimately depends on personal choice and contextual understanding.

For Further Reading:

Census Definitions and Classifications Linguistic and Cultural Identity in Latin America Portuguese in the Americas