One in Four Gen Z Are Hispanic: Latino Youth is Shaping American Culture and We’re Here for it

The Gen Z generation, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is a diverse and influential group that is shaping the future of American culture. Among the various ethnic groups that make up Gen Z, Hispanics play a significant role, comprising 25% of this generation. 

These numbers showcase an increase of young Latinos in the United States. According to a study by the PEW Research Center, the percentage of Hispanic Boomers in 1969 was just 4%, against 81% of their white counterparts. By 1987, Hispanic Gen Xers stood at 12% against 70%. And, in 2003, the number of Hispanic Millennials was 17% to 61%. Today it is 25% against 52%, meaning one in every four members of Gen Z is Hispanic. Furthermore, 36% of all Hispanics in the United States belong to Gen Z.

In the dynamic landscape of American society, Hispanic Gen Zers stand out as powerful catalysts, reshaping traditional notions of identity and actively influencing the fabric of our nation. Their impact and contributions are too significant to ignore. One defining characteristic that sets Hispanic Gen Zers apart from previous generations is their wholehearted acceptance of the term “Latinx.”

While the term may not resonate with the majority of Hispanics, it holds great appeal for Gen Zers, with a striking 69% expressing their affinity for it or affirming their comfort with its usage. Hispanic Gen Zers tend to adopt labels that authentically represent them, diligently educating themselves on identity, regardless of others’ opinions.

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Cultural connection does not simply come naturally for Hispanic Gen Zers; they actively work to cultivate and maintain it. They participate in a vibrant array of entertainment, art, music, sports, and other cultural activities, fostering a stronger connection to their heritage compared to the broader Hispanic population. Their concerted efforts in preserving their culture exemplify their unwavering commitment to honor their roots and embrace their rich diversity.

Amidst the intricate dance of navigating multiple cultures, Hispanic Gen Zers are forging a deeper connection with their heritage. An astounding 39% of Hispanic Gen Zers report feeling an amplified affinity to their ancestral legacy today compared to just a year ago, underscoring their resilience and unwavering determination to safeguard their identity amidst an ever-evolving society.

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Yet, Hispanic Gen Zers’ ambitions extend beyond cultural preservation; they are diligently preparing for the future. Driven by their own aspirations and ambitions, they display an increased propensity for pursuing higher education, embarking on career changes, and venturing into new professional realms when compared to other demographic groups.

Astoundingly, GWI USA reveals that Hispanic Gen Zers are an astonishing 106% more likely than the general population to embark on entrepreneurial journeys, fervently shaping their own destinies while making valuable contributions to the economy.

In recent years, we have witnessed promising progress in terms of cultural representation, yet there remains much ground to cover. One transformative figure, Bad Bunny, has emerged as an influential voice, empowering Hispanic Gen Zers to raise their voices against social injustices.

Bad Bunny’s impact transcends borders, challenging the preconception that only English-language music can dominate the charts. He is reshaping the future of Latinos in the music industry, serving as a vivid reminder that Hispanic Gen Zers are actively propelling change across diverse fields and, consequently, warrant our utmost recognition and unwavering support.