Epidermal Capital and Challenging Whiteness

• In Event: 4120 - White Fragility, White Tears: Managing White Emotions in Critical Discussions of Race

Abstract

In this presentation, I will discuss my work as a light-skinned Latina who studies multiracial spaces. I will specifically address the importance of using one’s privileges to challenge systems of power. In my case, as a light-skinned Latina who is often read as white, I discuss the importance of using my “epidermal capital” to challenge systemic whiteness. I will discuss my use of epidermal capital in my (undercover) fieldwork as well as in the classroom.

Author

• Sarah Mayorga-Gallo, University of Massachusetts-Boston