"*I hope I don't have to explain that "Hispanic" or "Latino" is not a race** - or a country - right...RIGHT?  God, I hope so."

Unfortunately, I find this is to often the case.  People just don't get it.  It's like saying, "I don't speak Mexican" when they mean to say "I don't speak Spanish".  It really gets my panties in a wad when someone does that!!!

"**(And to the people who upon meeting me say "you don't look or sound Hispanic" - what do I say? "Funny, you don't look or sound smart" - Grrr!)"

If I had a dollar for everytime I heard this, I'd be set.  I hate that.  One of my kids was potentially in need of speech therapy at the school.  I had to attend a couple of meetings, and in the process of signing paperwork, I noticed they did not have him listed as "Hispanic."  Granted, I am married to an white guy so obviously my kids' last name is not Rodriguez, but when I pointed out to the counselor that I needed it changed to "Hispanic" I felt all eyes on me.  Say it, just say it, I thought...but all I got were quizzical looks, so much so that I heard myself start defending myself right away.  "I'm of Mexican descent.  Really."

My personal favorite in regards to this, when someone realizes my heritage, is: "But you don't speak with an accent."  DUH.  I think I may have to use your snappy retort, it's perfect. lol

I live in Arizona, and the immigration issue is just a boiling issue right now.  It's threatening to boil right out of the pot...
