What is guera?

Güera

The term "güera" (feminine form; the masculine form is "güero") is a colloquial term in Mexico and other parts of Latin America used to refer to a person with light skin, light hair (blonde or light brown), and often light-colored eyes. It's essentially a descriptor of someone who is fair-skinned or has features perceived as "European."

The use of "güera" can vary significantly depending on context and region.

• Descriptive: It can simply be a descriptive term, like calling someone "blondie" in English.
• Affectionate: In some cases, especially among family and friends, it can be used as a term of endearment or affection.
• Class and Social Status: Historically, and sometimes even today, being "güera" can be associated with higher social status and privilege. This stems from the colonial history of Latin America, where lighter skin was linked to European ancestry and power. It relates to the concepts of colorism, where people with lighter skin are often favored over those with darker skin.
• Pejorative/Offensive: The term can be used in a discriminatory or offensive way, particularly if used to emphasize racial or social hierarchies, or to belittle or exclude people with darker skin.

It's crucial to be aware of the potential sensitivities surrounding the term and to use it respectfully, if at all. Its impact is heavily influenced by the specific context, the speaker's intent, and the listener's perspective. You may want to learn about microaggressions to understand the impact of these words on people.