Contemporary issues in Latino communities

Abstract

Latinos are a heterogeneous group with regard to nationality, immigration status, and language preference and proficiency. Latinos constitute the largest minority group in the United States. The bulk of the literature on Latinos places emphasis on Latino cultural characteristics (i.e., heavy emphasis on the family), yet this group faces many unique contemporary issues in this country. This chapter provides an extensive discussion on the contemporary issues that this group faces. These include issues regarding immigration status, acculturation, self-identification, language, poverty, discrimination, and access to healthcare.