Latino communities across the United States find a unifying thread in the national anthems of their countries of origin, particularly during moments of cultural and political significance such as international soccer tournaments. These anthems, often composed in the 19th century amid wars for independence, evoke shared histories of struggle against tyranny and aspirations for liberty, resonating deeply despite the region’s cultural and political diversity.

Rojas, an artist born in Bogotá who immigrated to the U.S. at age 12, described how singing these anthems reconnects her to her roots and recalls memories of home. She actively participates in local political efforts, including opposition to federal immigration raids in Orange County and volunteering for political campaigns. For her and many others, these songs symbolize a collective identity that transcends differences within the Latino community.

A 2024 survey by the Pew Research Center highlights this diversity, showing that 52% of Latinos prefer identifying by their family's country of origin, while only 30% use the labels Hispanic or Latino, and a mere 17% identify simply as American. Despite this fragmentation, their national anthems serve as a common cultural touchstone.

These anthems frequently call on citizens to resist oppression and cherish freedom. For example, Paraguay’s anthem references three centuries of colonial oppression; Ecuador’s praises its founders’ resolve against Spanish conquerors; Colombia’s acknowledges painful struggles but looks forward to renewal. Argentina’s anthem celebrates broken chains and equality; Uruguay’s rallies against tyranny with an energetic composition reminiscent of classical overtures; Panama’s anthem ends with a call to ongoing hard work in building society.

While some conservative critics oppose singing foreign anthems on American soil, supporters argue that such practices demonstrate a broader appreciation for liberty’s universal ideals. The tradition of revolutionaries worldwide singing anthems like France’s “La Marseillaise” underscores how national pride and solidarity need not be parochial.

However, for many Latinos, the message of the U.S. national anthem alone is insufficient. The experience of political exclusion and backlash during recent years, particularly under the Trump administration, has reinforced a sense of survival rather than empowerment. Latin American anthems’ themes of confronting despotism and striving for progress through sacrifice present a call to action that some see as critical ahead of the upcoming November elections in the U.S. Latino voters were instrumental in the 2024 presidential race and have the potential to influence congressional outcomes.

Yet, political developments in Latin America complicate this hopeful narrative. Many countries in the region have recently shifted toward right-wing leadership, with figures like Colombia’s newly elected Abelardo de la Espriella, who has earned Trump’s endorsement despite controversial remarks, indicating the persistence of political strongmen reminiscent of earlier eras.

Amid these mixed realities, events such as the World Cup provide occasions for communal expression and reaffirmation of shared ideals. Following Mexico’s 3-0 victory over Czechia to top its group, fans across the U.S. gather to sing the national anthem and celebrate a cultural heritage that continues to inspire resilience and hope. For some like Rojas, learning the often complex and archaic lyrics represents a small but meaningful victory in an ongoing struggle for freedom and justice.