Experiencing the transfronterizx world: Transfronterizx identities

• In Event: Border-crosser’s expertise: 'Testimonios' of exclusion, inclusion, and agency that span national borders

Abstract

While the close physical location of the cities of El Paso and Ciudad Juárez have normalized the transnational practices of the participants of this study (de la Piedra, Araujo, & Esquinca, 2018), the experiences of these transfronterizx students were entrenched in issues of asymmetrical power relations (Levitt & Glick Schiller, 2004), considerations of safety, and assigning a high value on time. Participants narrated stories of long lines at border crossings at early morning hours, situations of insecurity, and living life in a rush, all with the motivation to attend U.S. schools (Convertino, 2018).
These everyday experiences also contributed to the formation of distinct identities for themselves and their families as they made sacrifices and sought opportunities. Having lived for some time in both the U.S. and Mexico, and remaining frequent border-crossers, an identity depicted in all narratives was that of living a life of simultaneity (Levitt & Glick Schiller, 2004) and of nepantla, or in-betweenness, (Anzaldúa, 1999). For example, many conceptualized “home” as being both in Mexico and the U.S. Maria stated, “I'm a proud Mexican, and if I ever found somebody to sponsor me or if I ever get to stay here in the U.S. [to work], my roots, I think everything comes with me.” She does not view herself American or Mexican, but rather an individual that exists in one continuing world. Border-crossing experiences also produced empathy in the participants towards other transfronterizx students undergoing similar experiences; thus, solidarity also characterized their identities.

Authors

• Laura J Salazar, The University of Texas at El Paso

• Claudia Cabrera

• Alejandra Sanmiguel-López