Some may say “Afro-Latino” is a newly recognized term, but the history began with Christopher Columbus’ colonization in 1492 with a mix of African slaves, indigenous peoples, and Spaniards in Latin America.
Many Latinos of African descent represent this heritage out loud, like salsa superstar Celia Cruz with her hit “La Negra Tiene Tumbao.” These songs sing praises of African identity and struggle in Latin America.
Coastal Bend Afro-Latinos share experiences of identity, heritage and belonging in diverse community
I took the time to find others in the Coastal Bend who also identify as Afro-Latino.
That’s when I got a call from Wuelkin Martinez, who was born and raised in Honduras. He says he never thought he was any different until he moved to Texas…