Arkansas’s Republican Governor, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, has made a bold move this week to ban the term “Latinx” from being used in any official government documents or titles. Sanders has cited a Pew Research poll that found only 3% of American Latinos and Hispanics use the term to describe themselves as her reasoning for the executive order.
In her executive order, Governor Sanders makes it clear that “Ethnically insensitive and pejorative language has no place in official government documents or government employee titles.” The ban on Latinx is seen as an effort by the governor to protect the rights of minorities in Arkansas, while also ensuring that ethnically appropriate language is used when referring to these groups. While she acknowledges that there are different terms used by ethnic minority groups to refer to themselves, she believes that the term “Latino” should be used over “Latinx” to remain respectful.
“Ethnically insensitive and pejorative language has no place in official government documents or government employee titles,” Sanders’ executive order states. “The government has a responsibility to respect its citizens and use ethnically appropriate language, particularly when referring to ethnic minorities.”
While some may agree with Governor Sanders’ decision, there are many who disagree with it and believe it is an insult to those who prefer using the term “Latinx” over other terms like Latino or Hispanic. These people argue that banning the use of certain words can be seen as oppressive and disrespectful towards minority communities. They also point out that while only 3% of American Latinos and Hispanics may use “Latinx” currently, this number could increase in the future if more people become aware of its usage. They ultimately believe that each individual’s preference should be respected regardless of which term they choose for self-identification purposes.
