Growing up, being racially conscious was not part of my nature. I lived in a predominantly Latino community for most of my life, having close to no friends who were of different backgrounds. Those people who say they “don’t see race” — I was guilty of being one of them.
Then I turned 18, moved to the middle of nowhere in Pennsylvania to start my college career, and that’s where it all began to change. I wouldn’t say that I was a victim of racism in college, but I can say that people were strangely interested in learning about my nationality — almost too interested. My peers would often take guesses at where I could be from, and after revealing that I am of Cuban and Puerto Rican descent, the questions and commentary started pouring in. When I mentioned I was fluent in Spanish, they became even more aggressive.
It was almost as if people were trying too hard to not offend me as a Latina, with compliments that weren't genuine. But with these comments, there was a lot of underlying ignorance — something these people are not to be blamed for, because they truly just didn’t know any better. Rather than getting offended, I sought to educate, but I’m sure there’s still a lot of other Latinas who deal with this everyday.
At the end of the day, even if you might mean well, we’re just like you and would like to be treated that way. Here are 10 of the things Latinas are probably tired of hearing:
1. Latinas are crazy
This is probably the one we hear the most. One’s form of expression is not to be blamed on their race, and the “Latina temper” stereotype is getting old. It’s also offensive to treat our feelings as less valid because of this theory. If you approached us in a better way, we wouldn’t get mad, plain and simple.
2. What are you?
I’m human, thank you.
3. You don’t look Latina…
And what exactly is a Latina supposed to look like? People come in all colors, shapes, and sizes — including us! With so many Latin countries across the globe, it’s impossible for us to all look the same. Next.
4. Say something in Spanish!
Speaking another language isn’t something that’s out of this world — if we need to speak in Spanish, we will, but don’t treat us like performers. Another important note: not all Latinas speak Spanish.
5. You probably have like 20 siblings.
Wrong. This is just another stereotype, Latinas don’t all have multiple children and huge families. This may come as a shock to you, but some of us are actually only children (myself included).
6. You’re Mexican, right?
Some of us are, but don’t be so pushy. Mexican isn’t a race, and it isn’t a language. There are TONS of Latin cultures across several Latin countries — not all Latinos are Mexican. Point. Blank. Period.
7. Are you legal? Is your family legal?
Is this even okay to ask? Let’s just move on from this subject, it’s invasive.
8. Being referred to as exotic, feisty, fiery, spicy, etc.
Are these supposed to be flattering?
9. I only date Latinas.
That’s cool, but please don’t fetishize us. I’m sure there’s women of all different backgrounds who are worth your time.
10. You guys love to clean.
Slow your roll, Kelly Osbourne! We’re not all here to be the real life Devious Maids; many Latinas have gone on to pursue hugely successful careers in a variety of fields.
Related: 10 Things Your Black Friends Are Tired of Hearing
