Are Hispanic-Serving Institutions Sites of Transformation or Subordination? A Critical Race Analysis

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: Critical Perspectives in Higher Education

Abstract

When it comes to the sheer number of Latinx students enrolled, Hispanic-serving Institutions (HSIs) are unrivaled. Yet, when it comes to deciding whether Latinx students benefit from attending an HSI, the answer is less clear. In this paper, we apply critical race theory to evaluate the prevailing arguments used to defend, and in many cases, celebrate the role of HSIs in educating Latinx students. We contend that HSIs do a better job of promoting White interests by suppressing calls for the integration of elite predominately White institutions (PWIs), reducing access to ethnic studies programs, limiting the economic prospects of Latinx college graduates, and promoting a narrative that portrays Latinx students as incapable of excelling at more reputable colleges and universities.

Authors

• Rick Sperling, St. Mary's University San Antonio

• Richanda Berry, Prairie View A&M University

• Brandi Loving, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Cristian Avila, St. Mary's University