At the heart of major cities and small towns across the United States, two groups coexist to the best of their abilities with little or no information about one another. On one side, there are 45.5 million Hispanics — the largest minority group in the United States — and on the other, the remaining population of approximately 250 million non-Hispanic Americans. This Graphic Design thesis examines the lives of Hispanic immigrants from Latin America and how they are perceived in the United States. Raising American awareness and promoting Hispanic empowerment are presented as key tools for shaping the grounds for respectful mutual adaptation across an existing cultural gap.

The author, a first-generation Hispanic American, examines possible grounds for mutual adaptation through a graphic rendition of fieldwork, interviews, role-play, labeling practices, historical precedents, and cooking habits. The study is divided into three parts which are variously expressed through posters, books, games, videos, written narratives, and other forms which trigger the five senses. Firstly, it compares the history of the Americas in relation to language, social inequalities, and cultural practices in order to draw parallels and clarify misconceptions. Secondly, it presents interviews conducted with individuals at the cultural crossroads, the places where Hispanic and American cultures collide and where stereotypes meet. Preconceived notions are put on hold as both sides communicate surprising opinions about one another. Thirdly, this thesis offers a visual language to create a bi-directional conversation which is engaging, personal, and informative to viewers from both sides.