In the Eyes of Latinx Youth: Perceptions of Discourse on Immigrants and Immigration

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 34
  In Roundtable Session: Latin@ Generational Experiences of Educational Struggles and Success

Abstract

This study focuses on the meanings that young Latinx college students make of the dominant discourse on immigration and Mexican immigrants and to investigate how they perceive themselves within the social positionings of Latinx populations especially in light of recent political events, when disparaging discourse about minorities and immigration has been on the rise. Thirteen Latinx college students were interviewed in two focus group discussions, and asked to view videos and read excerpts involving the treatment of immigrants. Results show that these youth were aware of their racialization as ‘Other’ in U.S. contexts. Overall, the students resisted these portrayals, and critiqued mainstream views, and expressed dignity in their cultural and language practices.

Author

• Oraib Mango, California State University - San Bernardino