‘Latino, Si--Hispanic, No’

I agree with Del Olmo that applying the generic term Hispanic to Chicanos, Mexicans, Cubans and Latinos from Central and South America is based on ignorance. To consider many varying cultures and traditions as with our large Latino population as one group all in unison is a fallacy. Politically, Mexicans and Puerto Ricans have traditionally voted Democratic while Cubans and most recently Nicaraguans voted Republican.

There are many other factors that take part in this, such as history, culture and tradition. All this contributes to individual groups that cannot be treated as one large group. We must understand this with respect and treat each group individually.

I myself take pride in being known as a Chicano and disregard the superficial term Hispanic.

FELIPE A. PAYAN

Maywood