If you think Translating the Message is all you need, Think Again

Angelette Aviles & 

Evelyn Hale

There are different segments within the Hispanic community. Many statistics used are based on a nationwide number, which reflects on Mexicans being the majority. When we get into states like Florida, there is a variety of Hispanics coming from the Caribbean, Central and South America. Each of these groups bring on a whole different approach to viewing things since they do not share the same cultural experiences.

Spanish vs. English
More than 50% of Hispanics prefer to read and view media in English. A large segment of Hispanics are 2nd and 3rd generation American and are either bi-lingual or don’t even understand Spanish, however they are still attracted to messages that reaches to them on a cultural level.

An Example
In terms of Politics, regardless of ethnic background, one poll indicated that the #1 issue concerning Hispanics is Education. This is reflective on the fact that the average age of Hispanics is younger than the National average. The largest segment in the Hispanic community is under 18. So when creating a message to adults, consider using messages that incorporate family or children. If the message is to the youth, consider using bi-lingual or English messages with music in the background. There is a reason Regaeton made it to mainstream media and it is because of the large Hispanic youth population.