Chicana is a term for a woman or girl of Mexican heritage living in the United States who embraces both her Mexican roots and her American identity. A Chicana might speak both English and Spanish, celebrate Mexican holidays like Día de los Muertos alongside American ones, and feel connected to both cultures.

The word became popular during the 1960s and 1970s when Mexican Americans were working to gain equal rights and celebrate their heritage proudly. Before then, some people had used “Chicano” as an insult, but activists reclaimed it as a badge of pride. A Chicana might be someone whose grandparents immigrated from Mexico, or someone whose family has lived in the American Southwest for generations (even before those areas became part of the United States in 1848).

The male equivalent is Chicano, and Chicano can also refer to the whole community. Not every person of Mexican heritage uses this term. Some prefer “Mexican American,” “Latina,” or other terms. It's a personal choice that can reflect how someone thinks about their identity and history.

Chicana writers, artists, and activists have made important contributions to American culture, bringing Mexican traditions and perspectives into literature, art, and community life.