Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies

This report provides data from a survey on how the identities of U.S.-born Latinos, both personal and public, are evolving. Part of the focus is on the naming and ethnic identification of these Latinos, the influence of national origins and identity, and the way in which a Latino identity is understood and practiced. Family and community associations are explored for their influence on, for example, Spanish language transmission and use. Attitudes towards religious affiliations, homosexuality, and dating are also examined as key indicators of the social beliefs of those Latinos born in the USA. This is further explored by the nature of political engagement and attitudes towards popular culture. The report concludes that while there is considerable variability in the nature of Latino-ness, there are also important communalities (Spanish language use) as well as tensions (homeland versus U.S. loyalty).