Reproductions of Colonialism: The Experiences of Mexican Indigenous Youth in U.S. Schools

• In Event: 69.057 - Roundtable Session 32
  In Roundtable Session: 69.057-13 - Youth Experiences With Settler Colonial Schooling

Abstract

While the experiences of Latina/o immigrant youth in US schools have been well documented, Mexican indigenous students are often overlooked in this larger pan-ethnic context. In addition to being socialized into mainstream White American culture, Mexican indigenous students must negotiate their identities against the backdrop of a dominant Mexican mestizo identity. In this process, students experience oppression rooted in a history of colonialism. The purpose of this study is to better understand the educational experiences of Mexican indigenous youth and how their education intersects with colonialism. Specifically, this study examines peer interactions with non-indigenous Latina/o students and the ways in which Mexican indigenous students respond and confront hostile school climates.

Author

• Gabriela Kovats Sanchez, San Diego State University