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What do you call a person of Latin American descent?

It's important to be sensitive and respectful when referring to people of Latin American descent. There's no single, universally accepted term, and what someone prefers to be called can vary greatly depending on their individual identity and background.

Here are some considerations:

Avoid:

* "Latino": This term is often used as a catch-all for people of Latin American descent, but it can be seen as too broad and potentially insensitive. Some people may feel it erases their specific cultural heritage.

* "Hispanic": This term is based on language and can be misleading because many people of Latin American descent speak languages other than Spanish. It may also be perceived as excluding non-Spanish-speaking Latin Americans.

Alternatives:

* "Latin American": This is a broad term that encompasses people from all countries in Latin America, but it is generally acceptable.

* "Latinx": This gender-neutral term is gaining popularity as an alternative to "Latino" and "Latina." However, it is not universally accepted and some people may find it unfamiliar.

* "Person of Latin American descent": This is a neutral and respectful way to describe someone's heritage.

The best approach:

* Ask! The most respectful approach is to ask the person how they prefer to be identified.

* Be mindful of context. Consider the context and the audience when using any term.

It's important to remember that people from Latin America come from diverse backgrounds and have a wide range of identities. Using respectful and inclusive language is crucial.

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