The “Not Latin Enough” Dilemma: Navigating Identity in the Latinx Community

For many younger Latinx individuals, especially in the U.S., cultural identity can be a complex and sometimes isolating experience. A significant number of them, myself included, grow up speaking primarily English due to societal pressures, educational environments, or family choices. This linguistic shift can come at a cost. Many Latinx individuals face accusations of being "not Latin enough" within their cultural communities simply because they don’t speak Spanish fluently. This language-based ostracism often leads to a sense of displacement and insecurity about their own cultural identity.

A recent example is actress Jenna Ortega. Despite her success, Ortega has spoken openly about feeling disconnected from her Mexican and Puerto Rican roots due to her lack of fluency in Spanish. Her experience is one shared by many Latinx youth, who find themselves caught between two worlds: one where they are expected to assimilate into American culture and another where they are criticized for not conforming to traditional expectations of what it means to be Latinx.

Ortega’s story highlights a broader conversation within the Latinx community, where cultural purity is often tied to language. This rigid perception doesn’t account for the diverse experiences of Latinx people, especially in countries like the U.S., where external factors shape assimilation and identity. Language is just one aspect of culture, yet for some, it becomes the sole measuring stick for how "authentic" someone is. As Ortega herself has pointed out, cultural identity is about much more than language—it’s about history, shared values, familial connections, and experiences.

Jenna Ortega isn’t alone in facing these judgmental crossroads. Artists like Cardi B, of Dominican and Trinidadian descent, and Selena Gomez, with Mexican roots, have both encountered similar criticisms. Cardi B, who speaks Spanish, has faced backlash regarding how her fluency compares to native speakers. Selena Gomez has been accused of being distanced from her heritage due to her primarily English-speaking upbringing. These women, in their own unique ways, reflect the diversity of the Latinx experience and challenge the notion that cultural authenticity is synonymous with linguistic proficiency.

The issue is even more complex when we consider how Latinx youth often feel pressured to prioritize English, especially in academic or professional settings, where bilingualism may not be encouraged. While speaking Spanish can be a valuable asset, many Latinx parents prioritize English to help their children better navigate educational systems and opportunities. This decision, often made out of love and necessity, can inadvertently contribute to the cultural alienation these young people later experience.

Thankfully, the tide is slowly changing. Media is beginning to reflect the diversity of the Latinx experience more accurately. Shows like “Gentefied” and “One Day at a Time” highlight the nuanced experiences of Latinx individuals who straddle two cultures, often facing criticism from both. Characters in the shows grapple with the same questions of cultural identity that many in the real world do, showcasing a more inclusive representation of Latinx life.

Ultimately, language should not be a barrier to belonging. As the Latinx community continues to grow and evolve, it’s crucial to recognize that cultural identity is multifaceted. Rather than ostracizing those who don’t meet traditional expectations, we as a community must embrace diversity and acknowledge that being Latinx is more than speaking Spanish fluently—it’s about shared values, history, and the unique ways individuals engage with their heritage.

For younger Latinx individuals like Jenna Ortega, their stories reflect a broader truth: there is no one way to be Latinx. Whether or not someone speaks Spanish fluently should not define their connection to their culture. It’s time for the community to move beyond outdated definitions and celebrate the varied experiences that make Latinx culture so rich and complex.