U.S. Demographics: The Hispanic Boom Potomac Paper, No. 9, September 2011
As confirmed by the 2010 Census, Hispanics have become the largest and most dynamic ethnic minority in the United States. While still facing many difficulties, this rather diverse group is undergoing important changes in terms of political representation, economic situation and cultural recognition. It should play a growing role on the national scene in coming years.
The 2010 census confirmed that the Hispanic population of the United States has become the largest and fastest growing minority group in the country. It is also the most diverse one, as the debate over the labels ―"Hispanic", ―"Latino" or even ―"Chicano" suggests.
A number of findings may indicate that this group is slowly morphing from a poor and down-trodden minority into one of the nation’s most dynamic groups:
Latinos continue to be underrepresented both as voters and as candidates, but politicians are increasingly paying heed to their potential to sway elections. Latinos tend to prefer the Democrats (65% in 2010) and they share the same priorities as most other Americans, i.e. jobs, healthcare, and education. Allegiances may be changing, however, and some sub-groups, such as Florida-based Cubans or Catholic-inspired conservatives, already vote for the Republicans.
Hispanics suffer from disproportionately high rates of poverty and joblessness, with many also lacking healthcare and failing to complete a high school education. These problems increase the incidence of crime within Hispanic communities and limit upward social mobility. Nevertheless, they are also rising to prominence in entrepreneurship and as a reliable consumer base.
Finally, in spite of enduring negative stereotyping by the media, Latinos are engaging in cultural exchange in various regions of the United States and gaining visibility in mainstream society. Latino celebrities display this most prominently, but second and third generation residents are also integrating effectively.