Mexico and the United States’s proximity has inevitably resulted in cultural exchange. While this admirable fusion promotes unity, it has also resulted in a general association of Mexican culture with all of Latin America. There are 33 different countries in Latin America, each with an array of vibrant traditions, food, languages, history, and a range of subcultures. Although there is some overlap, condensing this region of cultures into two words diminishes the beautiful details of each culture. 

In the United States especially, people tend to assume that everything south of the border is part of the Mexican sphere of influence, rather than acknowledging the diverse set of cultures of Latin America. What has contributed to this generalization? Is it pure ignorance? Did it grow from a lack of exposure to diversity? Well historically, much of Latin America consists of countries that were colonized and under European rule–both of which were driven to spread Catholicism to its new colonies. This cultural overlap leads to much confusion, especially because Mexico is so known for its Catholic values.

In addition to religion, the colonists brought their languages, traditions, and cultures; this import of mostly Spanish culture ultimately led to the amalgamation of European cultures with already existing indigenous cultures. Today this assimilation is what individualizes each culture and is apparent in language and food. For instance, in Argentinian and Chilean Spanish, words like “che”–meaning people or “gente” in Spanish–come from the language Mapudungun of the Mapuche. The popularity of Catholicism and the prominent use of Spanish has made it easy to generalize a whole continent. Despite that fact, every country has been able to create special traditions.

All of these countries have distinct histories, which are best reflected in each country’s Independence Day. These range throughout the year and, though many Latin American countries were conquered by Spain, all don’t reference overthrowing the Spanish. The Dominican Republic fought off Haitian occupation, Belize separated from the United Kingdom, and Argentina, Nicaragua, and more organized revolutions against their own unjust governments. There are also specific historical figures that are important to every country. As we have Presidents Day in the U.S.A. to celebrate George Washington, Colombia, Venezuela, and Panama celebrate the birth of Simon Bolivar who helped pave their way to liberty.

Another important distinction between each of these countries can be found in their food. Cuisine is important to cultures all over the world and brings families together in a variety of ways. For example, “In Colombia it’s a tradition to make arepas, which are flat corn patties with mozzarella and specific cheeses,” details senior Chamila Muñoz. “My grandma taught my mom how to make them, and then my mom taught me how to make them, and so, whenever we visit my family, me and my mom and my grandma always make them together.”

Each country has a specific cuisine that originated there and is an important part of their culture, from mofongo in Puerto Rico to hallacas in Venezuela. 

It is a common assumption in the U.S. that the terms Latino and Mexican are synonymous; however, the dozens of countries that make up Latin America have unique and special traditions that go far outside of Mexican culture. This generalization can be harmful, as it erases important aspects of a person’s identity. We are made up of our heritage and our life experiences, both of which are greatly impacted by our culture. When that is taken away, it leaves a one-dimensional and inaccurate perception of us.

Chamila Muñoz is a strong believer in the recognition of all cultures. Identifying as Colombian and Guatemalan, she has experienced the generalization of Mexican and Latino culture firsthand.

“It can be so uncomfortable because people make assumptions,” Muñoz said. “The fact that they completely diminish where I’m from and make their own assumptions can be hurtful.”

This does not mean that any one culture is superior; it is important that every culture receives equal celebration.

When asked about her association with Mexican culture, Munoz said, “It’s a beautiful culture and I applaud it, but it’s just not mine.”

Junior Zanna Owens-Ramirez, who identifies as Hispanic with Mexican heritage, agrees on the negative effects of stereotypes.

“When people assume that when you’re Latina, you are Mexican, it dilutes your culture,” Owens-Ramirez said. “It’s like your culture isn’t as important because they don’t acknowledge it.”

From the cuisine to the history, distinguishing the complex history behind each country in Latin America is an important way to respect people’s identities. Putting each Latin American culture underneath the same umbrella diminishes the value of people’s heritage and experiences. Latino means expressing your culture, your language, and your roots: Latino doesn’t always mean Mexican. 

Since our first post of this article, we have made two clarifications. The word “Che” is used in Argentina and Chile. The Dominican Republic was occupied by the Haitian government for 22 years, but was its own country first, not a part of the country of Haiti.