Abstract

Do Latinas identify as non-religious? If so, why this is important? This chapter examines the demographic, social, and political characteristics of Latinas with no religion, also referred to as secular or none Latinas. Demographically, public opinion surveys show that Latina nones are a very young, highly educated and mostly unmarried group of women. Regarding their social and political characteristics, Latina nones are breaking with the traditional stereotype expected for Latinas in general as they are more liberal in their opinions toward the size of government, same-sex marriage, and legal abortion. Despite this humanist profile, Latinos studies and secular institutions are still overlooking this group. If this does not change, we may be squandering an opportunity to welcome a secular identity for Latinas and to make ethical guidance available beyond theistic religion.