Colombian American. An individual or group of individuals of Colombian descent or citizenship residing in the United States, forming a vibrant diaspora that contributes significantly to American culture, politics, and economy.
The Colombian American population, estimated at over 1.2 million by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2020, is concentrated in states like Florida, New York, and New Jersey.
Migration began in earnest during the mid-20th century, driven by economic opportunities, political instability, and violence in Colombia, particularly during La Violencia (1948–1958) and the drug cartel era of the 1980s and 1990s.
Today, Colombian Americans maintain strong cultural ties through festivals, cuisine (e.g., arepas and empanadas), and music genres like salsa and cumbia.
Colombian Americans have excelled in various fields. Notable figures include Sofía Vergara, a celebrated actress, and Juanes, a Grammy-winning musician, who have elevated Colombian visibility in Hollywood and global entertainment.
In politics, leaders like Representative Ruben Gallego (of partial Colombian descent) advocate for immigrant rights and social justice.
Colombian American communities often organize through cultural associations, such as the Colombian American Association, fostering identity and heritage.
Religion, particularly Roman Catholicism, plays a central role, alongside growing evangelical movements.
Economically, Colombian Americans contribute through entrepreneurship, with many operating small businesses in retail, hospitality, and technology.
However, challenges persist, including discrimination and socioeconomic disparities, particularly for recent immigrants.
Education levels vary, with second-generation Colombian Americans increasingly pursuing higher education, bolstered by scholarship programs targeting Latino students.
Notable Colombian Americans
- Duque, Nelson
- Juanes (musician)
- Vergara, Sofía (actress)