An Introduction to “Latinx”
By Andres Medina
Staff Writer
Social media has given society a renewed sense of self. Due to its long shelf life and broad appeal, many have found a way to express their opinions, form communities, and create change using apps like Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.
One of the most significant actions social media has created is introducing the gender-neutral term “Latinx” or “Latine.” This term has become a neologism that voices support for non-binary people in the Hispanic community.
“I think Latinx is a great way to help everyone feel included in the school, and it also helps everyone feel heard,” says Harold Washington student Manuel Guzman.
Latinx has its roots going as far back as 2004, first used on social media platforms and chatrooms at the time. The term was first added to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary in 2018 and the Oxford English Dictionary the following year. The term has been almost exclusively used in the United States.
“Because the U.S. has such a large population of progressive young people, ‘Latinx’ has become more popular with them, especially on the internet,” said Professor Frank Pina.
The term has received both widespread support and criticism from both Hispanic and non-Hispanic people.
“I think it’s a decent way to keep everybody happy,” said Rosemarie Patino, a student at HWC.
“I think it’s a cool term if people wanna feel comfortable, but personally I wouldn’t use it,” said student Alexander Bedolla.
Many in the Hispanic community consider the word unnecessary or even offensive to the Spanish language in some cases.
“I think because a lot of older people are more resistant to… change, they may have more of an issue with that term… many of them may not necessarily understand what ‘Latinx’ means and why there’s a big fuss surrounding that term to young people,” said Pina.
“As a professor working at Harold Washington [College], I’ve only recently heard ‘Latinx’ be used instead of just Latino or Latina. But if it makes my students more comfortable in the classroom, I don’t see why it shouldn’t be used,” said one professor, who wished to be anonymous.
Some of the older members of the Hispanic community feel confused surrounding the term.
“I feel like since the word ‘Latino’ is already gender-neutral in Spanish, there isn’t really a need for ‘Latinx’, it’s just redundant and confusing to me,” said Mr. Martinez, a resident of the Little Village community in Chicago.
Despite arguments from both sides ongoing, “Latinx” has made it onto several documents over the past five years. Many brochures, surveys, legal documents, and contact information sheets have adopted the term in an attempt to feel more inclusive towards the Hispanic community. Harold Washington College has adapted “Latinx” into their own files, and will continue to make decisions in the best interest of its students.
“I think the school is working to becoming more inclusive towards students who feel vulnerable and those who feel like they don’t have a voice. Eventually though, I think they’re doing what’s best for the student population,” Pina said.
