Latin America

The other category is made from smaller stereotypes.

Through my research, I have concluded that the main stereotype made about Latin America is that everyone is grouped under either Spanish or Mexican.

People associate Spanish with Latin America because it is the main language. However, because of that idea many people assume that all Spanish speaking people are the same and also that Spanish has just one dialect. That statement could not be further from the truth. In fact, one word to a Mexican can have a completely different meaning to a Puerto Rican. While the association is not harmful, it can affect the way people view certain demographic groups or regions which in the long term can lead to the formation of negative thoughts and opinions. 

A negative thought that people have about Latin America deals specifically with Mexican people. Many people often assume that all Mexican’s are either “drug traffickers” or illegal immigrants “border hoppers”. This statement is false. In fact, many Mexicans view the idea of drugs as inconceivable.  Culture is very important in Mexico. Family and religion are the center of all aspects of their lives. They believe in having a strong sense of authority and stability in their lifestyles. Since doing drugs go against this philosophy many people, do not get involved with them allowing them to stay true to their culture.

~ Elizabeth