Mexican Americans 

Chicanas & Chicanos representing a cultural identity that is neither fully "American" or "Mexican".  Chicano culture embodies the "in-between" nature of cultural hybridity of being born in the U.S. from Mexican born parents.  The children of these “in-between” people are also considered Chicanas and Chicanos until they lose their connection with their Mexican roots.

First Generation Mexican Americans

Often have a unique perspective on life that is shaped by their experiences growing up with immigrant parents.  The lucky ones understand early on, the value of hard work and the sacrifices made by their parents, appreciating the opportunities that the U.S. has to offer their bloodline. They are often proud of their heritage and culture while embracing their new identity as Americans with honor.

This generation serves as key historical figures in their respective family trees often considered to be the most important and a major source of inspiration as reminder of the hardships overcome to provide a better life for their families. They are a symbol of hope and resilience, proving that anything is possible with hard work and determination motivating future generations.

Second Generation Mexican Americans

Born and raised in the U.S., caught between two worlds: Mexican heritage and American upbringing. They are the children of first-generation immigrants and are often bilingual and bicultural having access to more educational and career opportunities due to the sacrifices of their parents. While deeply rooted in the American way of life, they maintain a strong and deep connection to their Mexican heritage.

Third Generation Mexican American

The grandchildren of Mexicans who immigrated to the U.S. are often more Americanized than their parents and grandparents, having been born and raised in the U.S., and typically speak English as their first language.

Fourth Generation Mexican American

By this generation the family is deeply rooted in the U.S., and most members are fully integrated into American society. While many of the Mexican traditions taught by the first generation may have faded, some key cultural elements often persist. One of the most prominent of these is the emphasis on strong family values.

Mexican-Americans are the minority-majority and the backbone of America.

Mexican American Population

• U.S. population over 334,000,000 (three-hundred thirty-four million)
• U.S. born population with Mexican ancestry 26,600,000 (twenty-six million six hundred thousand)
• U.S. population born in Mexico 10,700,000 (ten million seven hundred thousand)
• The largest of any Hispanic group and the nation’s second largest racial or ethnic group
• Most Americans with Mexican descent live in California, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Washington, Illinois, Florida, & New York