"Mexican" Is a Nationality, Not a Label to Use Carelessly

The term "Mexican" refers to a person who is a national of Mexico (by birth, descent, or naturalization) or who identifies with Mexican ethnicity/culture. It is a standard demonym—like "Canadian," "Japanese," or "Nigerian."

Appropriate Use

• Citizenship: "She is a Mexican citizen."
• Cultural identity: "He celebrates Mexican traditions."
• Cuisine, art, history: "Mexican food," "Mexican muralism," "Mexican Revolution."

Inappropriate Use

• As a slur or stereotype: "They're acting Mexican" (implying negative traits).
• To assume homogeneity: "Mexicans all think/vote/look alike."
• To question authenticity: "You don't look Mexican."
• To conflate with immigration status: "Illegal Mexican" — dehumanizing; use "undocumented immigrant from Mexico" if relevant.

Diversity Within

Mexico has 126M people: Indigenous (Nahua, Maya, Zapotec, Mixtec, etc.), mestizo, Afro-Mexican, European-descended, Asian-descended. 68 Indigenous languages. Vast regional cultures (Oaxaca ≠ Monterrey ≠ Yucatán).

Use "Mexican" as a neutral descriptor of origin or citizenship. Avoid assumptions. Respect self-identification.