An Iowa State University professor says most spanish-speaking Iowans prefer to be called “latinos” rather than “hispanics.” Hector Avalos says the term “hispanic” was devised by a commission of spanish-speaking people who advised the U.S. Census Bureau. But he says the more common term is “latino.” He cites college courses across the country, labeled “latino studies” rather than “hispanic studies.” Avalos says the popularity of “latino” has taken off, but in some areas of the country, spanish-speaking residents like to refer to themselves as Mexican Americans or Puerto Ricans rather than latino.Avalos says “Latino is an identity that’s under construction right now, and economic and political forces will determine where it goes.” Avalos, an I-S-U religion professor, tracks latino and “latina” political issues.
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