Hispanics, Mexican-American, Mestiza/o, Texican, Tejana/o, Latina/o, Chicana/o, Xicana/o, Pocho/a, or Californio, are all terms used to refer to individuals whose heritage originates from the former Mexican territories and Indigenous lands of the Southwestern United States (TX, NM, CO, AZ, UT, CA, NV), contemporary Mexico, or Central/South America. They are often a mix of Indigenous Indian and Spanish. Some are bilingual. Many speak English only. Collectively, they are sometimes referred to as La Raza.
They embody a pivotal element of American cultural diversity, characterized by their historical legacy, traditions, and relentless advocacy for civil and human rights. Their impact resonates throughout diverse realms including art, music, literature, cuisine, sciences, business, and politics. From the era of early European colonization, to the contemporary era, Chicana/o's have remained actively engaged in the pursuit of civil and human rights.