The Color of Aspiration: Are Latinos The Next Whites?

It’s November 7, 2024. Latinos are clearly becoming the next ‘whites’ and represent what the Republican Party may look like in the future. This episode promises to challenge everything you thought you knew about Latino identity in the U.S.

Back in April 2024, we spoke to Political Psychologist Efren Perez, a UCLA Professor of Political Science and Psychology, who holds a PhD from Duke University, about his research on what are the true psychological and political factors that are driving many Latinos to “whiteness.” Is it a survival mechanism or is it status-seeking? What are the long-term implications of this negotiation of identity and the Census?

Episode Summary:

• Perez on his recent Newsweek article and the concept of “ideological whiteness.”

• Exploring Latino identity and the political landscape.

• Impact of personality traits on political ideology among Latinos.

• Latino Republicans and their alignment with conservative ideologies.

• Discussion on how historical shifts have redefined racial categories.

• Potential future of Latino identity and politics in the U.S.

Key Quotes: ❞

“We’ve been talking about Latinos and African Americans and other groups as if they sort of naturally belong together. They don’t.” – Efren Perez

“The main point is that the category of white has expanded and narrowed across the centuries. And we are living in a moment, awash in data where we can show you that it’s going through expansion right now.” – Efren Perez

“Quit focusing on the outliers and focus your energy on organizing, mobilizing the two-thirds that are already convinced, but don’t have the time to vote, don’t have the time or resources to make their perspective felt.” – Efren Perez

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