The Collective Voices of a Community Coalition of Undocumented Mexican Adults: Es beneficio de la comunidad, para todos...Somos la voz de las personas

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 17
  In Roundtable Session: Shifting Partnerships and Priorities for Organizing

Abstract

ommunity coalitions can be transformative in promoting power, voice, and outward sharing of resources, particularly in resource-deprived communities. Research however falls short in examining the supportive role community coalitions play in under-served community spaces. Through the voices of (N = 10) undocumented Mestizo community members from a Southwestern U.S. community, we examine the importance of voice, as well as the role they serve as a bridge within their community. Two broad themes emerged: Being a Bridge and Facilitating Community Change and Collective Action toward Change. Our findings echo the work of prior scholars that highlight the importance of community coalitions in bridging resources, as well as promoting the collective voices of community members.

Authors

• David Thomas Lardier, The University of New Mexico

• Ybeth Iglesias, The University of New Mexico

• Cinthia Ramirez, The University of New Mexico