Latinos all across the world have beautiful culture, music and traditions. Their homes and communities are well known for their beauty and rich color. That being said, there are faults within the community. One of the many issues is sexism which divides men and women. In my own experience, I’ve experienced what is called “benevolent sexism.” This refers to more subtle acts of sexism and gender based discrimination that wouldn’t be classified as severe or violent. For example, being given easier tasks or assignments because it is assumed you are not as capable as a man, being expected to take on traditional roles such as a housewife or mom, or being dismissed when expressing a desire to seek higher education. These are only a few examples of the benevolent sexism that Latinas face. Many times, men and even the women who are the victims, don’t realize when this occurs because it has become so deeply engraved in the culture and customs.
The second form of sexism that is prevalent in the Latino community, is hostile sexism. Hostile sexism can be derogatory, abuse both physically and emotionally, and limits opportunities for Latina women. For instance, femicide, which refers to the murder of a woman on the basis of her gender, is particularly severe in South American countries. Women are killed daily in high numbers. Additionally, the reason why I am doing this topic about the Latino community rather than sexism in general, is because I find that it has become such a normalized and almost accepted issue. There even exist terms such as Machismo which describe a traditional mindset held by many Latinos. These beliefs revolve around male “dominance” and believe that men have the authority to control the lives of women. What they do, with who, when, where, etc… These toxic ways of thinking set back not only Latina women, but the entire community as a whole. Rather than seeing the error in their ways, many Latinos especially those who are older, are stuck in their ways and refuse to be told otherwise. Hostile sexism can also be sexual. A stereotype I can guarantee every single Latina has had to hear or see, is the ignorant belief that all Latinas are “thick, spicy, and exotic.” I find that many who hold this belief are not Latino. Where do they even get this way of thinking you ask? Well, I would place lots of the blame on social media and what is shown on TV. In various shows and movies Latinas are portrayed as that stereotypical “spicy, thick, Latina.” Their accents are exaggerated, they are dumbed down, and portrayed as having uncontrollable emotions. This kind of portrayal is so dangerous because it just affirms stereotypes and makes everyone think that all Latinas are like this in real life.
Where did the “machismo” way of thinking even stem from? According to the Northeastern University study about masculinity, machismo ideology and beliefs can be traced all the way back to the Spanish Conquest and Colonization of Latin American Countries. As the Spanish made their way through the Southern and Northern Continents, they brought their sexist beliefs with them. As the Spanish colonized indigenous communities, they spread their culture of Catholicism. Spain already had a male centered government and social hierarchy, so as you can imagine, the indigenous quickly began to share these same views. Even the Catholic church promoted traditional ideology. Women were taught to become traditional housewives, that it was a sin to leave an abusive relationship, and described the most “holy” women as women who are submissive and well behaved. This sexism didn’t just affect women. You were seen as more “Masuline” and “Manly” if you fit within the traditional belief of what a man should be like and do. Men were to be brave, lead the household, and fight to protect their families and country.
I believe that there exist many possible solutions to this problem. However one solution that we could all contribute to, is recognizing the sexist behaviors of others, and even our own! The first step of changing the way the world functions is by changing the way you function first. You can try speaking to your family members and explain why certain things they say are harmful to women and men. However on a larger scale, a very effective change we can try to make is working with media and producers to help ensure their shows don’t depict Latinas in a harmful way. As the word slowly gets more and more accepting and progressive, it seems as though the Latino community remains stuck in their ways. In order to change this, we must first redefine what it means to be “masculine.” Masculinity is not just being physically strong, working and providing for a family, or going to war. Masculinity can be shown in so many ways other than what is traditionally believed. What masculinity means, is determined by one’s own opinions. As you read this blog, If you recognize toxic behaviors or ideology that you or those around you have been exhibiting, make sure that you recognize the error in others and your own ways. Thank you for reading my blog and I hope I was able to educate those who were unaware of this issue and validate other Latinas out there who have experienced either benevolent or hostile sexism.
Diana Aguirre – Lake Forest Academy – DMSF Class of 2029
Photo Credit: SantiagoGonzález – Pixabay