Introduction to Latinx Studies

This course introduces students to Latinx studies drawing on both the distinct and intra-ethnic experiences of Chicanx/Mexicanos, Puerto Ricans, Dominican Americans, and Central Americans. Introduction to Latinx studies examines the international processes (e.g., wars of imperialism, colonialism, immigration, migration, legislative policies) as central forces in the formation of U.S. Latinx communities. Including the historical influences of Caribbean, Central and South American cultures in American society. This global perspective will accompany a more specific focus on the relationship between Latinx culture and American society, the dynamic role of women in the shaping of Latinx communities, and origins and place of Latin American-diasporic communities in U.S. society. Through an interdisciplinary scholarly lens and archival research, we analyze the history of Latinx migration, immigration, and the social justice and civil rights leaders and organizations who advocated for full citizenship rights. We study artists and the spaces where Latinx art has been transformative across cultures, the nation, and international spaces. We examine the Latinx diasporic communities and trace their journeys across borders and advocacy for civil rights. Our discussions will include a history and analysis of language, art, music, folktales, and tools that shape the Latinx community. Including Latinx ingenuity, innovation, and major contributions in the sciences, humanities among other fields. Students will read an assortment of foundational humanities and social science literature on the U.S. Latinx experience as well as strengthen writing abilities, sharpen critical thinking skills, and develop archival research proficiencies.