The Origin Of The Word "afrolatino"

2024 Author: Steven Freeman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 08:15

For a long time, black-skinned Latinos had difficulty identifying themselves. Stereotypes surrounding the Latino community have diminished the valuable experiences of black-skinned Latinos, who claim African heritage. Academics like Marta Moreno Vega, who founded the Caribbean Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute, have worked to change the popular narrative that Latinos do not have an African heritage.

"From the beginning of the 15th century, you see the African presence in all the Americas," said the also professor. "We have always been present as Afro-Latinos, African descendants."

Moreno Vega has been instrumental in creating the term "Afro-Latin," which describes Latin American people who have African roots. The debate around this term was the focus of a panel discussion moderated by Shirley Velasquez, executive editor of CHICA. The conversation also included Melody Capote, deputy director of the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute, Dasha Harris, director of the Black documentary and co-founder of Afrolatino Travel. The conversation focused on the historical context of the term “Afro-Latin”, the work of institutions such as the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute and how it manifests itself in their respective communities.

Watch the conversation here and complete our survey on the Afro-Latin community. We want to hear from you!