More than just a number, it’s an identity among the melting pot
By: Nicole Spradlin

Lomo Saltado, Chicha Morada, Picarones, El Señor de los Milagros, Eva Ayllón, Chacalón y la Nueva Crema. What do they all have in common? They encompass my Peruvian identity and culture. 

I was born in Long Beach, CA. My mother was born and raised in Peru, and my father was born and raised in Virginia. Growing up, I did not question my Peruvian background. I am Peruvian-American. I am of South American descent. 

I take pride in my Peruvian identity and love being part of a beautiful melting pot of various cultures. This melting pot allows all cultures to shine, but I have noticed that some cultures and identities are highlighted more than others. 

Approximately 61.7 million Latinos live in the United States. About 37.1 million are from Mexico, 6 million are from Central America, and 4.2 million are from South America.

People have mistaken me for Mexican, Filipino, and Colombian—all beautiful countries rich in culture, food, music, and history—but that is not me. I sometimes feel like my Peruvian identity gets overlooked, overlooking my experiences and who we are. 

With many cultures contributing to the vibrant cultural mix in the United States, it is vital to recognize the smaller Latino subgroups, such as South Americans, within the much larger community because each is unique. 

For instance, most South Americans are adults and have high educational ambitions. 

Compared to all Latinos, South Americans tend to have high levels of educational attainment. Approximately 26% of South Americans have an Associate Degree or some college experience, compared to 25% of all Latinos. Thirty-eight percent have a Bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to 19% of overall Latinos. A further breakdown shows that those from Venezuela, Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia tend to have the highest level of education. 

I am proud to have joined the 38% of South Americans with Bachelor’s degrees this year, and I aspire to continue my education in the future. 

South Americans also constitute a large portion of the adult and senior population. Latinos ages 18 to 64 comprise 62% of the Latino population, while South Americans make up 67%. Additionally, South Americans ages 65 and above outnumber the overall Latino senior population by 2%. 

Looking at age and education provides a broader picture of who South Americans are. It offers the opportunity to learn more about their experiences and separate them from the masses. Most importantly, it allows them to keep their identity and take pride in it, just as I am proud of my identity.

As one of the research fellows at UCLA LPPI, I have witnessed firsthand the commitment to advancing equity and inclusion for all Latino communities. By highlighting the unique contributions and challenges faced by smaller Latino subgroups, such as South Americans, we aim to inform and influence policies that ensure every Latino voice is heard and valued. Our work underscores the importance of data in shaping a future where all Latino identities are recognized and celebrated. Through continued research and advocacy, we strive to empower Latino leaders with the information they need to create positive change in their communities.