“From a legendary figure in the realms of Latino/a religious studies comes a book that is destined to become a classic.  Filled with invaluable historical scholarship and timely analysis for our socio-political landscape, and elegantly written as well, Anthony M. Stevens-Arroyo's Latinidad is a must read for anyone and everyone who is interested in the makings and continuing relevance of the Latino/a religious spirit.”—Benjamín Valentín, professor, theology and Latinx studies, Boston College Clough School of Theology and Ministry

“In Latinidad: A Revolution for the American Paradigm, Anthony M. Stevens-Arroyo eloquently identifies the multicultural reality of Latinidad as a vital path forward for democracy. Deeply intellectual and fiercely compassionate, this work critiques how traditional power structures erode democratic norms while offering an indispensable vision for a pluralistic society.” —Edwin David Aponte, James W. Pearsall Professor of Religion & Culture, Drew University

The old nation can be reborn as something better and convincingly new. When political systems failed in the past, popular culture and inspirational movement music have filled the breech. As the country finds itself in a dark place in this anniversary year of 2026, Latinos represent one of the forces to pierce the gloom with the brilliance of a starry night.

This book describes the past, present and future of Latinos in the United States by condensing a wide swath of historical, religious, cultural and political studies. More than 50 years of personal experiences color the narrative about social movements and cultural trends. The book asks: “What are the ethics of perpetuating past paradigms of national identity when the nation faces demographic changes that will make Latinos the largest ethnic/racial group in a multiethnic/racial United States?” 

Anthony M. Stevens-Arroyo, professor emeritus of Puerto Rican and Latino studies, Brooklyn College CUNY, wrote the landmark Prophets Denied Honor (Orbis, 1980) during the early decades of an emerging Latino church leadership. Ever since, he has combined scholarship encompassing three continents with roles as a well-published public intellectual and passionate advocate for human and civil rights in the United States and Latin America.

Cover design: Melissa Romano