Choosing the Right Race Category- Navigating Identity for Mexican Americans
What race do I put for Mexican? This question often arises when individuals of Mexican descent encounter the race category on official forms, such as job applications, surveys, or government documents. The complexity of race and ethnicity in the United States makes this question particularly intriguing and challenging. In this article, we will explore the various perspectives on how to categorize Mexican individuals within the race category and the underlying reasons behind this confusion.
Mexican individuals are often considered Hispanic or Latino in the United States, which is an ethnicity rather than a race. The term Hispanic or Latino encompasses people of Spanish-speaking origin or ancestry, regardless of their specific race. This classification stems from the historical and cultural connections between the United States and Spanish-speaking countries, primarily in Latin America.
However, the race category is a separate and distinct classification from ethnicity. When it comes to race, the U.S. Census Bureau provides several options, including White, Black or African American, American Indian and Alaska Native, Asian, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, and Other. This raises the question of how Mexican individuals should be categorized within this framework.
One perspective is to consider Mexican individuals as part of the “Other” category. This approach acknowledges the diversity within the Mexican population, which includes various indigenous groups, mestizos (people of mixed European and indigenous descent), and other ethnic backgrounds. By selecting the “Other” category, individuals can express their Mexican heritage while also recognizing the diversity within their own community.
Another perspective is to choose “White” as the race category. This is based on the historical and societal perception that Mexicans are Caucasian. This perspective has been influenced by the colonial history of Mexico, where Spanish colonization led to the mixing of indigenous peoples with European settlers. However, this approach may not accurately represent the individual’s racial identity, as it does not take into account the indigenous and mestizo heritage of many Mexican individuals.
Some individuals may opt for “American Indian and Alaska Native” as the race category, especially if they have indigenous Mexican ancestry. This choice acknowledges the rich cultural and historical connections between the indigenous groups in Mexico and the United States. However, this option may not be suitable for individuals whose heritage is primarily mestizo or European, as it may not accurately reflect their racial identity.
In conclusion, the question of what race to put for Mexican is a complex one with no definitive answer. The choice depends on individual identity, heritage, and the underlying reasons for selecting a particular category. It is important to recognize that race is a social construct and can vary greatly among individuals and communities. By acknowledging the diversity within the Mexican population and considering the various perspectives on race, individuals can make an informed decision on how to categorize themselves.
