Who are Afro Latinos?

In today's society its hard to distinguish Afro Latinos from full blooded Blacks or Hispanics. They blend in amongst both sub groups and rarely are categorized into their own ethnicity. Most Afro Latinos decide which ethnicity they want to belong to because society forces it upon them. Most afro latinos struggle with their identities because they are never certain of their race. The media constantly overlooks Afro Latinos on the news by generalizing them with blacks or hispanics. For example, Christina Millian was categorized as black for many years, and even played non hispanic black roles in film. However, most people don't even realize that besides Nigeria the largest group of blacks are in Brazil, suggesting that Afro latinos is a pretty important group.


A famous Afro Latino that has struggled immensely with her identity in the media is Mariah Carey, she was criticized for seldom acknowledgment of  her hispanic background, and only acknowledging being black for certain award nominations. Personally, I believe she did not want her race to take away from the love and passion she had toward her music. In addition, she probably didn't want her race to dictate her success.


Afro Latinos prior to researching their history was a mystery to me, however I have realized psychologically they struggle with their perception in the media as well as with themselves. Their own people criticize them at times and I did not think of the effects that may have had on them. Personally, I believe Afro Latinos should be given their own ethnicity or at least noted for contributing in both the latin and African american culture.