Maria identifies as Latina and speaks both Spanish and English. She often feels connected to her cultural heritage through traditional celebrations. In a discussion about identity, which statement best reflects the distinction between ethnicity and race in Maria's context?

In Maria's context, her ethnicity refers to her cultural background, which includes her traditions, language, and celebrations that connect her to her Latina heritage. This means that her identity is shaped by the shared experiences and cultural practices of her community. On the other hand, race is often based on physical characteristics, such as skin color or facial features, which may not necessarily reflect her cultural experiences. For example, Maria might share a racial background with others who do not identify with her specific ethnicity, like someone who is also Hispanic but does not celebrate the same traditions. Therefore, while race can describe a physical trait, ethnicity is more about the cultural identity and connection that Maria feels through her language and celebrations.