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Why do you use the term Latine?
Latine (pronounced la·ˈti·ne) is a gender-neutral form of the word Latino, created by LGBTQIA+, gender non-binary, and feminist communities in Spanish speaking countries. The objective of the term Latine is to remove gender from the Spanish word Latino, by replacing it with the gender-neutral Spanish letter E. This idea is native to the Spanish language and can be seen in many gender-neutral words like “estudiante”.
Do you have to speak Spanish to use the term Latine?
No. Latine is an identity created by LGBTQIA+, gender non-binary, and feminist communities in hopes of addressing structural and institutional biases found in Latino and Hispanic cultures. These biases transcend languages, borders, and national origins.
Is Latine inclusive of Black, Asian, and Middle Eastern Latinos?
Yes. Latines are a mixed-race ethnic group from many different countries and origins who pride themselves in their regional and multi-racial identities. For this reason, Latine is inclusive, but we are not here to tell anyone what they should call themselves. That is why we emphasize the phrase, Call me Latine. We encourage allies to be mindful of individual preferences and respect individual identities.
I thought the X in Latinx was for indigenous peoples. Are they included in the term Latine?
While some individuals with indigenous origins identify as Latinx, other indigenous people reject the term because the letter X was imposed on indigenous languages during Spanish conquest and the use of the term groups indigenous peoples with their oppressors. At Call me Latine, we recognize and respect this opposition and do not intentionally group indigenous peoples within the term Latine when used in our content. However, many Latines may identify as both Latine and indigenous on an individual basis.
Gender is found all throughout the Spanish language. How do you expect to get people to change the way they speak Spanish?
For some, the term Latine is simply an identity, and for others, the principle serves as a form of self-expression when communicating in Spanish. While the principles of the word Latine can be used to remove gender from most conversations in Spanish, it is up to individuals and communities to decide if they wish to engage in this form of communication. Call me Latine is a resource for those who wish to learn more about this identity and participate in this movement. To learn more about resources for Spanish speakers visit our Language Resources page.
Call me Latine. 