I found that the Young Lords Party was an inspirational group, which fought for the rights of Puerto Ricans in the US and for the independence of Puerto Rico. What was most inspirational to me was the unity. Just like many other groups that had a goal in mind, this specific group stayed focused and would fight for their beliefs at all costs. I think that the types of campaigns that they took part in were incredibly interesting and effective. One specific example that was discussed in class was the garbage pick-up in Spanish Harlem. By using the trash as roadblocks, they were forced to increase the pick-up to create a cleaner living space. These sorts of campaigns did become a bit more violent when the trashcans were set on fire, but I believe that they had the well being of the community at heart.
In this day there are still specific groups that are fighting for the rights of their people, but not in the same ways that were done in the past. I think that in some ways we live in a “selfish” environment, one in which society takes for granted all that was done in the past to give them this independence. I wish that more people would realize the struggles of the past and the best way to ensure this is through education.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
We Call Them Greasers
I was glad to see Gloria Anzaldua's poem We Call Them Greasers as one of our reading assignments. Poetry has an effect on people that articles can't always get across. Written facts or statistics in articles sometimes go over my head, but pieces like Anzaldua's really put things into perspective.
This piece had such awesome imagery, which got my imagination going. Since it was written from the white man's point of view, I was sort of forced to put myself in his shoes, which was not something I really wanted to explore, but it gave the piece a greater impact. It made me realize just how horrible these men were, and how their thoughts were just as awful as their actions. Having to actually picture the rape was very creepy and very distressing. It made me feel as though these men weren't really human, which is interesting because the white man in the poem is trying to dehumanize the Latinos that he saw. I think that it was a very bold choice to write this poem, and Anzaldua's creativity helped paint a gruesome picture that really got the point across. I think that having poetry like this mixed in with all of the other readings throughout the semester will really help me to understand the Latina/o experience.
This piece had such awesome imagery, which got my imagination going. Since it was written from the white man's point of view, I was sort of forced to put myself in his shoes, which was not something I really wanted to explore, but it gave the piece a greater impact. It made me realize just how horrible these men were, and how their thoughts were just as awful as their actions. Having to actually picture the rape was very creepy and very distressing. It made me feel as though these men weren't really human, which is interesting because the white man in the poem is trying to dehumanize the Latinos that he saw. I think that it was a very bold choice to write this poem, and Anzaldua's creativity helped paint a gruesome picture that really got the point across. I think that having poetry like this mixed in with all of the other readings throughout the semester will really help me to understand the Latina/o experience.
Response to "13 Point Program"
Reading The Young Lords Party 13 Point Program and Platform really made the their case come alive for me. I felt like this piece was much more genuine and personal than the other reading and movie we saw on the subject since it reveals the unaffected words of the organization. What stuck out to me the most was their stance on racism and how it differed drastically from that of LULAC. The Young Lords Party 13 Point Program took a much more inclusive approach, while LULAC seemed to embrace white supremacy as they tried to distinguish themselves from other minority groups like African Americans. The line “All the colored and oppressed peoples of the world are one nation under oppression,” from the “13 Point Program” drives this point home. I think that in this way the Young Lords Party were more respectable in their fight for equality and liberation.
One aspect I found interesting about the “13 Point Program” was the way they choose to spell “American”—“amerikkkan.” I wasn’t sure exactly why they did this, but I concluded that it might be their response to the American named “Porto Rico.” Perhaps this was their way of insulting the US and denouncing them as an oppressor.
One aspect I found interesting about the “13 Point Program” was the way they choose to spell “American”—“amerikkkan.” I wasn’t sure exactly why they did this, but I concluded that it might be their response to the American named “Porto Rico.” Perhaps this was their way of insulting the US and denouncing them as an oppressor.
Have we lost the American Dream?
The readings on LULAC (the one about racism and politics of assimilation in particular) made me wonder if American culture has lost what was once the American Dream. The members of LULAC, and I would argue most Americans during the postwar years, strongly believed in self advancement. It seemed to me that they had immense faith in US institutions, believing that the system was fair and just. Even in the face of blatant racism, LULAC believed that as long as someone tried and tried their best, they would succeed in society. The values of hard work and self motivation were very apparent in LULAC's ideology.
While I reading, a nostalgic feeling came over me. LULAC's ideology and values relflect a time period in US history when those values were embraced by the entire country. How did we go from being so individualistic that families refused welfare during the Great Depression to thinking that the government owes us something? How did we go from having blind faith in American institutions to condemning the system as corrupt? (I'm not arguing that either extreme is better- just that there seems to have been a shift).
I think the Vietnam War and, more recently, the Iraq War have contributed to a lot of American's lack of faith in American institutions. As a result, Americans no longer have blind faith in the status quo like the members of LULAC did. We question issues like poverty and and racism and how our institutions reinforce it. What happened to individualism? I think the post New Deal era and the creation of government programs like social security and medicare had a lot to do with the shift from individualism. The creation of these programs made it acceptable to receive aid from the government as a social right. I also think that having less faith in the justice of US institutions may contribute to the feeling that the government owes its citizens (perhaps for the institutionalized injustice they suffer?). Also, if "the system" is inherently unjust, then the individual cannot be held entirely accountable for their failures.
Does being less individualistic and having less faith in US institutions mean that we've lost the American Dream? Or has the dream just changed and what to?
While I reading, a nostalgic feeling came over me. LULAC's ideology and values relflect a time period in US history when those values were embraced by the entire country. How did we go from being so individualistic that families refused welfare during the Great Depression to thinking that the government owes us something? How did we go from having blind faith in American institutions to condemning the system as corrupt? (I'm not arguing that either extreme is better- just that there seems to have been a shift).
I think the Vietnam War and, more recently, the Iraq War have contributed to a lot of American's lack of faith in American institutions. As a result, Americans no longer have blind faith in the status quo like the members of LULAC did. We question issues like poverty and and racism and how our institutions reinforce it. What happened to individualism? I think the post New Deal era and the creation of government programs like social security and medicare had a lot to do with the shift from individualism. The creation of these programs made it acceptable to receive aid from the government as a social right. I also think that having less faith in the justice of US institutions may contribute to the feeling that the government owes its citizens (perhaps for the institutionalized injustice they suffer?). Also, if "the system" is inherently unjust, then the individual cannot be held entirely accountable for their failures.
Does being less individualistic and having less faith in US institutions mean that we've lost the American Dream? Or has the dream just changed and what to?
Reaction to the Puerto Rican Obituary
This poem definitely hit home. During the summer, I worked in a tomato factory in Romulus, MI for minimum wage. The majority of my co-workers were undocumented immigrants from Latin American countries. We worked side-by-side, 14-hour days, standing, speaking only Spanish or broken English. The first section of the poem describes what we did perfectly. We worked hard, always on time, never talked back to supervisors, who yelled at us, "RAPIDO!!!" We were paid minimum wage, but I'm sure some of the undocumented workers were getting less than that; after all, how could they do anything about it? It's really a shame that this poem was written in the 70s, and yet still describes the lives of many Latinas/os in the United States. This, to me, substantiates the fact that the US has a long way to go in order for every person to receive the benefits of equality.
Discussion Questions for 10/3
Hey all,
Here are the discussion questions for Monday's reading "Establishing an Identity in the 60s"
2. How was Latinismo sustained in the United States?
3. What was the main contradiction for Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans living in the United States?
4. What was the Young Lords party? What was their goal?
5. What were some of the things the Young Lords party did in their community?
6. What was the party's stance on women?
7. How did the other Puerto Ricans feel about the Young Lords?
8. What are some differences between the Puerto Ricans struggle and that of the Mexican-Americans?
9. What two realities did the Chicano movement address?
10. Who was Cesar Chavez and what did he do?
11. What was the goal of the Alianza Federal de Mercedes?
12. What was the Chicano Power Movement?
13. What was La Raza Unida?
14. As the decade progressed, how did things change?
15. What was the women's role in the fight?
Reflection on Lecture 9-29
The other day in lecture, Professor Cotera was talking about all the different movements and organizations ( Young Lords, Black Panthers, etc) and it made me realize the drastic differences between generations. Back then, people joined together and fought for a cause. They proudly united in their culture and ancestry displaying it to the rest of society whereas today there is a good portion of people out there who know nothing about their ancestry or the culture/traditions that they come from. People today are too busy looking out for themselves and themselves only. Everyone is too power and money hungry and they fail to realize most of the opportunities that we have today wouldn't exist without the struggles back then. Those people were willing to sacrifice their lives in order to bring about change and we can't even give up one day of work in order to volunteer or support an organization. I have deep respect for all those who made sacrifices in order to make our country what it is today.
Puerto Rican Obituary
Pedro Pietri did an incredible job in writing this poem; the emotions he evoked from me were both of empathy and of anger. He set the scene by describing these five Puerto Rican workers - how they were hard workers, always on time, and never complained or disrupted the environment - even when they were provoked. He continued to build up the tone by detailing their dreams (of winning lottery tickets, effective anti-poverty programs, trips to their homeland) all the while giving the reader the sense that all these dreams were just that; that no matter how hard they worked, how much they hoped for, these dreams were unattainable.
A line that particularly struck emotion in me was on the third page, first stanza: "The first spics on the block / Proud to belong to a community / of gringos who want them lynched..." The extremely harsh tone in these few lines are seen through the referral of the Puerto Ricans as "spics" (a very condescending term for Latinos) and also by explaining the Puerto Ricans' excitement of being among the whites and away from others of their race, not even caring that they would not only be unwelcome, but likely to be harassed and maybe killed off. The tone in which Pietri wrote this stanza almost made it seem as though he thought these Puerto Ricans were pathetic for wanting to live among people who wished for their death.
My favorite lines in the whole poem were the last two, "Aqui to be called negrito / means to be called LOVE". Where I come from, the word "negrito" is not used in any way as an insult, but instead as an affectionate term for someone of dark skin, and it gave me pleasure to be able to say that when those around me and I use the term, it is out of love, rather than disgust as it was used back when the poem was written.
All in all, I interpreted the poem's message to be a warning to show the dangers of conforming, as well as those of internal battles within a group. A unified group is the most effective and invincible, but once members start to give in to racism and question themselves, they begin to compete against each other (as Juan, Miguel, Milagros, Olga and Manuel did) and this has the potential to break apart the group. We saw this same thing happen to the Young Lords after they had switched political goals several times and finally lost membership, instead of staying on one united front with one united political ideal in mind.
A line that particularly struck emotion in me was on the third page, first stanza: "The first spics on the block / Proud to belong to a community / of gringos who want them lynched..." The extremely harsh tone in these few lines are seen through the referral of the Puerto Ricans as "spics" (a very condescending term for Latinos) and also by explaining the Puerto Ricans' excitement of being among the whites and away from others of their race, not even caring that they would not only be unwelcome, but likely to be harassed and maybe killed off. The tone in which Pietri wrote this stanza almost made it seem as though he thought these Puerto Ricans were pathetic for wanting to live among people who wished for their death.
My favorite lines in the whole poem were the last two, "Aqui to be called negrito / means to be called LOVE". Where I come from, the word "negrito" is not used in any way as an insult, but instead as an affectionate term for someone of dark skin, and it gave me pleasure to be able to say that when those around me and I use the term, it is out of love, rather than disgust as it was used back when the poem was written.
All in all, I interpreted the poem's message to be a warning to show the dangers of conforming, as well as those of internal battles within a group. A unified group is the most effective and invincible, but once members start to give in to racism and question themselves, they begin to compete against each other (as Juan, Miguel, Milagros, Olga and Manuel did) and this has the potential to break apart the group. We saw this same thing happen to the Young Lords after they had switched political goals several times and finally lost membership, instead of staying on one united front with one united political ideal in mind.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Reflection on video
I thought the video showed in lecture today did a very effective job of conveying the attitude of the oppressed urban youth involved in the Young Lords. Watching the video made me feel almost worthless about my live. While these individuals dropped everything to rally around a worthwhile cause, today, it seems like we have all lost the fighting spirit. Surely it can’t be because there are no public troubles anymore. There are still people living in poverty, with no shelter, no healthcare, and a maintaining only fraction of the things we take for granted every day. Yet it seems to me like we just don’t care anymore, at least not nearly to the same extent. I assume our lake of outspoken spirit is merely a token of our distance from most of these problems. I would like to hope that if we lived directly under remotely similar conditions we would go to just as powerful means to fight the injustices.
"Puerto Rican Obituary" reflection
This poem shows what it is like living in America as a Puerto Rican. Piedro Pietri, the author, mainly focuses on the working aspect of life. Puerto Ricans have an excellent work ethic, as they never show up late or take days off. They work hard and never complain. However, this attitude is never rewarded. They are paid poorly and can barely pay their bills. They are employed in working class jobs as factory workers, messenger boys, janitors, assistants, and the like. Although all in the United States are trying to achieve the American Dream, it is simply not possible for Puerto Ricans. The system has set them up to fail. The American Dream is just that to the Puerto Ricans: a dream.
Not only are the Puerto Ricans unable to attain material wealth, but also are unable to gain respect from their fellow Americans. Pietri infers the Puerto Ricans are inferior to rodents, as even "mice live like millionaires." They are constantly discriminated against and battle racism in every community. Although they pledge allegiance to the United States and salute to the flag, they do not feel the same sense of appreciation. Americans refuse to care about their culture, such as the Spanish pronunciation of their last names. Even at their funerals, Pietri believes, their flowers will be stolen. This image shows the utter lack of respect and feeling for Puerto Ricans in the United States. All this hatred from the outside turns the Puerto Rican people against each other as well. The want and longing for material wealth causes them to become jealous and steal from each other. Puerto Ricans are completely losing their ties to each other and their culture back on the island.
This culture, as Pietri exclaims, is a beautiful one. He believes that if American Puerto Ricans did not buy into assimilating and Americanization, they would realize the richness and splendor of their own ways of life. Puerto Rico itself is a great place and should not be seen as inferior to the United States. Pietri even goes as far as to say that death is better for Puerto Ricans than living in America, as they face constant harassment and discrimination while living. In this magical place after death, the Puerto Ricans are happy and uniting. They are appreciating their culture, language, and country. These last couple of verses are in stark contrast to the rest of the poem. Here, Pietri is highlighting Puerto Rico and insulting America.
After reading this poem, I felt saddened at the treatment my fellow Americans extended to Puerto Ricans. The racism against people of other races, ethnicities, religious, skin color, and whatever other differences is atrocious in this country. I think its time for a great change and hopefully such actions will not repeat themselves as history has shown they will.
Stephanie Dowdle
"We Call Them Greasers" Reaction
This language in this poem is so strong and not only touched me personally, but touched on so many larger social issues while maintaining a captivating voice and interesting choice of narrator. I really noticed the tragic way the intersection of different social disadvantages played out in the power dynamics of the poem. Mexicans as a whole were victims of racism, the Mexicana was also a victim of sexism when she was raped, and the issue of class and monetary privilege was brought up with the taxes. The lacking of these privileges can't be separated from one another, as the characters in this poem are affected by these forces in multiple ways that are intertwined. It is in the same manner that the Anglo American can't separate his privileges of skin color, gender, citizenship status, class, etc. They are working together to put him in the place of power and taking power away from others. It is for this that the poem is heartbreaking to me on such an intense level, because it demonstrates the way these forces work together to keep the oppressed and privileged as they are. To me I see that this has been a timeless truth and is still relevant. I hope this can change.
Reflection Post- Pa'lante, Siempre Pa'lante
I found this film really interesting and moving. I was very impressed by the efforts of such young people. I have lived in New York City my entire life and never knew about the Young Lords and the Puerto Rican Movement that took place relatively close to my own home. I'll be honest, I was a bit embarrassed that I never knew about the movement beforehand.
The film made me think about youth in the U.S. today and how different we are compared to the previous generation. It seems that youth back then had so much more energy and were willing to do anything to create change. I was amazed at all the things they were able to accomplish such as the free breakfast program for children, Emeterio Betances free health clinic, community testing for tuberculosis, lead poisoning testing, free clothing drives, cultural events and Puerto Rican history classes. It really made me want to get up and do something, be a part of something so empowering and revolutionary. I feel that much of our generation is so consumed by technology and other materialistic things that we are completely unaware of what goes on around us.
I found the destruction of the Young Lords by the FBI appalling. I was also disgusted by the police brutality. It upsets me to think that the issues that the Young Lords fought against then are still prevalent today and many of us know little about or choose to ignore them.
The film made me think about youth in the U.S. today and how different we are compared to the previous generation. It seems that youth back then had so much more energy and were willing to do anything to create change. I was amazed at all the things they were able to accomplish such as the free breakfast program for children, Emeterio Betances free health clinic, community testing for tuberculosis, lead poisoning testing, free clothing drives, cultural events and Puerto Rican history classes. It really made me want to get up and do something, be a part of something so empowering and revolutionary. I feel that much of our generation is so consumed by technology and other materialistic things that we are completely unaware of what goes on around us.
I found the destruction of the Young Lords by the FBI appalling. I was also disgusted by the police brutality. It upsets me to think that the issues that the Young Lords fought against then are still prevalent today and many of us know little about or choose to ignore them.
Reflection Post on "Puerto Rican Obituary"
This poem made me upset. It was written in a way that touched my heart by emphasizing the tragic life of a Puerto Rican in 1973 and also made me angry that some people are made to suffer while others easily find the silver linings. “Juan, Miguel, Milagros, Olga, Manual, all died yesterday today and will die again tomorrow.” The life they had “yesterday”, their past, is gone since they are no longer living in their homeland, Puerto Rico.
Sadly, the life they are living “today” could be much better. They make little money and struggle to live a decent life with little luxuries. A majority of their time is spent traveling from their homes in Spanish Harlem all the way to Long Island so they can bury their loved ones. The “will die again tomorrow” refers to the fact the Puerto Ricans don’t see their life improving in the future in any great way.
Puerto Ricans are trapped. Although they try to live a good life, they are victims of something much larger and out of their control. They work hard and try to get raises to help lift their standard of living, but the reality is that they will be working hard for wages that are much less than they deserve. The only good news comes from the fortune teller, Sister Lopez.
Sadly, the life they are living “today” could be much better. They make little money and struggle to live a decent life with little luxuries. A majority of their time is spent traveling from their homes in Spanish Harlem all the way to Long Island so they can bury their loved ones. The “will die again tomorrow” refers to the fact the Puerto Ricans don’t see their life improving in the future in any great way.
Puerto Ricans are trapped. Although they try to live a good life, they are victims of something much larger and out of their control. They work hard and try to get raises to help lift their standard of living, but the reality is that they will be working hard for wages that are much less than they deserve. The only good news comes from the fortune teller, Sister Lopez.
Reflection post of- We Call Them Greasers
Hey Guys,
I personally thought this poem/story was extremely depressing and very sad. Of course this shows how the Mexican-Americans were treated inhumanely, at one point of this country's history, by the Anglo-Saxsons; but their treatment towards them could be looked at as being worse than the treatment of a dog. I had to read this story like two times, because it was really powerful. Even after this course, I'm definitely going to remember this for many years.
-Arjun
I personally thought this poem/story was extremely depressing and very sad. Of course this shows how the Mexican-Americans were treated inhumanely, at one point of this country's history, by the Anglo-Saxsons; but their treatment towards them could be looked at as being worse than the treatment of a dog. I had to read this story like two times, because it was really powerful. Even after this course, I'm definitely going to remember this for many years.
-Arjun
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Reflection Post 9/28
This is a post to reflect on the video clip shown in lecture on Wednesday. I grew up watching and loving West Side Story - the beautiful dresses, the exciting song and dance scenes, and the overall excitement of the love story in the movie. But, seeing a clip of West Side Story in the context of a class on Latino/a culture, I have come away with a different opinion on the stereotypes of Puerto Rican immigrants in America during the latter phases of Puerto Rican immigration. As pointed out by Professor Cotera, the producers/directors of West Side Story did a very poor job in creating a realistic portrait of life for Puerto Rican immigrants in America. During the particular scene that we watched in class ("America"), the Puerto Rican women did a flowery song and dance routine that was not at all representatitve of Puerto Rican dance. The flamenco steps the women in the movie did were, in fact, of Spanish, not Puerto Rican origin. That is just one of the examples of how the movie misrepresents its Puerto Rican characters. The men and women in that scene also continually bring up stereotypes of Puerto Rican culture. The line that stood out to me the most is when the main character sings "always the population growing" and holds her stomach, feigning pregnancy. One of the alarming stereotypes of Puerto Ricans in the mid 1900s was that they were "over-sexed." And this line in West Side Story, although meant to be comical, only furthers that stereotype.
What is important to note though, is the fact that a new revival of West Side Story is set to hit the broadway stage next spring. Famous Broadway director Arthur Laurents is directing the musical and has revealed very little about what the show will be like except he has pledged to make it "more realistic" and "more contemporary." It is the hope of many that the new musical will more accurately portray the life of young Puerto Rican immigrants in New York City without losing its old-time flare.
In conclusion, I think that it is incredibly important to point of the flaws of the original West Side Story movie, but to still enjoy it for what it is worth. I believe that the revival of West Side Story on Broadway in the spring will be a welcomed change to the classic "Romeo and Juliet" story, but will have a much more balanced and contemporary spin.
Chelsea Roth
What is important to note though, is the fact that a new revival of West Side Story is set to hit the broadway stage next spring. Famous Broadway director Arthur Laurents is directing the musical and has revealed very little about what the show will be like except he has pledged to make it "more realistic" and "more contemporary." It is the hope of many that the new musical will more accurately portray the life of young Puerto Rican immigrants in New York City without losing its old-time flare.
In conclusion, I think that it is incredibly important to point of the flaws of the original West Side Story movie, but to still enjoy it for what it is worth. I believe that the revival of West Side Story on Broadway in the spring will be a welcomed change to the classic "Romeo and Juliet" story, but will have a much more balanced and contemporary spin.
Chelsea Roth
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Discussion Questions for 9/26 (part 2)
Discussion Questions for “The Politics of Race and Assimilation: The League of United Latin American Citizens 1929-1940” by Benjamin Marquez.
1. The reading discusses two types of theories that describe an ethnic minority group’s organization: group based theories and ethnic based theories (pg. 356). How do the two theories differ? Which theory best explains LULAC according to the author? Do you agree?
2. Do Mexican Americans or Latin Americans in general still (if you agree with the author) organize across economic lines or has there been a shift to group organization? In your opinion, what caused this shift?
3. What was LULAC’s main goal and how did they promote it? (pg. 359).
4. In LULAC’s opinion, how was assimilation achieved? What was holding them back? (pg. 365 and 366). Do you think that the Latin American community still holds these views?
5. Describe the typical member of LULAC. How did the composition of LULAC’s membership affect their political, social, and economic goals?
6. What was LULAC’s position on racism within society? According to LULAC, how does a Mexican-American (or American of Mexican decent) overcome racism?
7. What explains LULAC’s (seemingly) obsession with characterizing Mexican-Americans as “white”? What was LULAC’s aversion to associating or allying with other minority groups, particularly blacks? (pg. 368-369).
8. LULAC claimed in the 1950’s that discrimination against Mexican Americans had been eliminated. Do you agree?
9. According to the author, LULAC advocated for change within the existing social, political, and economic structures rather than calling for structural change itself. In your opinion, why did members of LULAC have so much faith in American institutions?
10. In your opinion, do social activists still advocate in much the same way that LULAC did or has there been a shift towards promoting structural change? Why is that? (i.e. do Americans now have as much faith in “the system” as Americans and members of LULAC did in the early 1900’s and why?).
1. The reading discusses two types of theories that describe an ethnic minority group’s organization: group based theories and ethnic based theories (pg. 356). How do the two theories differ? Which theory best explains LULAC according to the author? Do you agree?
2. Do Mexican Americans or Latin Americans in general still (if you agree with the author) organize across economic lines or has there been a shift to group organization? In your opinion, what caused this shift?
3. What was LULAC’s main goal and how did they promote it? (pg. 359).
4. In LULAC’s opinion, how was assimilation achieved? What was holding them back? (pg. 365 and 366). Do you think that the Latin American community still holds these views?
5. Describe the typical member of LULAC. How did the composition of LULAC’s membership affect their political, social, and economic goals?
6. What was LULAC’s position on racism within society? According to LULAC, how does a Mexican-American (or American of Mexican decent) overcome racism?
7. What explains LULAC’s (seemingly) obsession with characterizing Mexican-Americans as “white”? What was LULAC’s aversion to associating or allying with other minority groups, particularly blacks? (pg. 368-369).
8. LULAC claimed in the 1950’s that discrimination against Mexican Americans had been eliminated. Do you agree?
9. According to the author, LULAC advocated for change within the existing social, political, and economic structures rather than calling for structural change itself. In your opinion, why did members of LULAC have so much faith in American institutions?
10. In your opinion, do social activists still advocate in much the same way that LULAC did or has there been a shift towards promoting structural change? Why is that? (i.e. do Americans now have as much faith in “the system” as Americans and members of LULAC did in the early 1900’s and why?).
Discussion Questions for September 26
Hi everyone! Here are my discussion questions on the article "Puerto Ricans in the United States"
1. Which was the largest and fastest growing cultural community in the US during the early decades of the twentieth century?
2. What were some of the gender specific industries that recruited Puerto Ricans after WWI?
3. What year did the US grant US citizenship to Puerto Ricans?
4. Why did contract workers become part of the underprivileged working class and a major source of low wage labor that supported the manufacturing and service industries?
5. In the 1920’s and 30’s what area was known as the preferred point of destination for Puerto Ricans?
6. What was El Barrio?
7. What was the public’s idea about the Puerto Rican worker’s expertise and was it true? How did they get this distorted view?
8. What type of higher educational employment could some Puerto Rican women hope to attain?
9. What was the purpose of the Puerto Rican organizations which became important in the 1920’s?
10. What were the hometown clubs and what was their purpose?
11. What was the role of small business in Puerto Rican communities?
12. What were the purposes of Puerto Rican organizations?
13. What effect did the depression have on Puerto Rico?
14. What industries were affected by the depression?
15. How did the decline of industry affect workers?
16. What other devastating occurrence compounded the effects of the depression?
17. What was the Lamento borincano?
18. Who did the Puerto Rican writers feel was to blame for PR unhappiness and a poor state of living?
19. What did Herbert Hoover say about the conditions in Puerto Rico?
20. Describe the poor conditions in Puerto Rico in the thirties.
21. Who was a leader for radical reform in the 1930’s?
22. What was the Chardon Project?
23. What was the Puerto Rican slogan in 1938? What were the three major political parties in the 1930’s?
24. Who did the Nationalists denounce and what did they want?
25. Who were the Cadets of the Republic?
26. What are pitiyanquis (petit yankee)?
27. What was the expression “dynamite on our doorstep” referring to?
28. What was the Tydings bill?
29. Who was Munoz Marin?
30. What was to happen under “Commonwealth”?
31. Why were Puerto Ricans were called “Marine Tigers”?
32. What group is the largest airborne group of migrants to come to the US?
33. What commercial business encouraged Puerto Ricans to come to the US?
34. What is one characteristic that makes Puerto Rican’s different from other immigrant groups?
35. Why do you think the AFL did not reach to the companies to halt the exploitation of Puerto Rican workers?
1. Which was the largest and fastest growing cultural community in the US during the early decades of the twentieth century?
2. What were some of the gender specific industries that recruited Puerto Ricans after WWI?
3. What year did the US grant US citizenship to Puerto Ricans?
4. Why did contract workers become part of the underprivileged working class and a major source of low wage labor that supported the manufacturing and service industries?
5. In the 1920’s and 30’s what area was known as the preferred point of destination for Puerto Ricans?
6. What was El Barrio?
7. What was the public’s idea about the Puerto Rican worker’s expertise and was it true? How did they get this distorted view?
8. What type of higher educational employment could some Puerto Rican women hope to attain?
9. What was the purpose of the Puerto Rican organizations which became important in the 1920’s?
10. What were the hometown clubs and what was their purpose?
11. What was the role of small business in Puerto Rican communities?
12. What were the purposes of Puerto Rican organizations?
13. What effect did the depression have on Puerto Rico?
14. What industries were affected by the depression?
15. How did the decline of industry affect workers?
16. What other devastating occurrence compounded the effects of the depression?
17. What was the Lamento borincano?
18. Who did the Puerto Rican writers feel was to blame for PR unhappiness and a poor state of living?
19. What did Herbert Hoover say about the conditions in Puerto Rico?
20. Describe the poor conditions in Puerto Rico in the thirties.
21. Who was a leader for radical reform in the 1930’s?
22. What was the Chardon Project?
23. What was the Puerto Rican slogan in 1938? What were the three major political parties in the 1930’s?
24. Who did the Nationalists denounce and what did they want?
25. Who were the Cadets of the Republic?
26. What are pitiyanquis (petit yankee)?
27. What was the expression “dynamite on our doorstep” referring to?
28. What was the Tydings bill?
29. Who was Munoz Marin?
30. What was to happen under “Commonwealth”?
31. Why were Puerto Ricans were called “Marine Tigers”?
32. What group is the largest airborne group of migrants to come to the US?
33. What commercial business encouraged Puerto Ricans to come to the US?
34. What is one characteristic that makes Puerto Rican’s different from other immigrant groups?
35. Why do you think the AFL did not reach to the companies to halt the exploitation of Puerto Rican workers?
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
LULAC - was anyone else almost offended?
I understand that the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) has done many great things and is a very respectable organization. However, I was very shocked when reading "The Politics of Race and Assimilation: The League of United Latin American Citizens". My dad was born in Mexico and came to the U.S. when he was in his early 20's, after college. He has always stressed hard-work and education to me, and so has his brother who came to the U.S. before my dad. My uncle has become a very successful entrepenuer and owns restaurants in the area and an electric company. He tends to have this notion of superiority almost over other minorities that always kept me from getting close with him. Reading this article helped me get to the root of his opinions. I was taken aback by statements in the article.
Quoting the article, "The organization itself adopted 'America' as its official song, English as its official language, and the 'George Washington Prayer' as its official prayer. It boasted that the League's constitution was modeled after the United States Constitution" (p 360).
"There was no doubt in their minds that through the 'upbuilding' of their peoplethey could eventually assimilate into the American melting pot" (p 361).
"In order to compete with other races, Mexican Americans would have to elevate their own 'intellectual standard'" (p 362).
"In an extended use of imagery, M. C. Gonzalez compared the Mexican American to a natural resource, albeit one in need of extensive refinement. ... but with a sturdy rig and a reliable drill of loyalty and perseverance, we can perforate through the rough matter into a better region of understanding" (p 365).
"LULAC strategists revealed a lack of commitment to the importance of group boundaries as well as an uncritical attitude toward racism. In a societ in which discrimination gainst all minority groups was pervasive, LULAC avoided interacting with blacks and made the claim that Mexican Americans were white. (p 366).
"LULAC believed a Mexican American must demonstrate his/her worthiness as a United States citizen to the white majority population" (p 359).
I think that the ideas behind LULAC were great. They needed to improve the social status of Mexican Americans. Holding trust and pride in the Constitution of the U.S. and its system is also a good quality of the organization. Keeping that education is the best means to succeed also is a positive moral of LULAC. However, after what the Anglos had done in recent history to the Mexicans, LULAC seems a bit radical in its ideals. These quotes I had pointed out are almost degrading to the Mexican American race. They should have held more pride in their culture and where they came from, and almost have more anger towards the white population they strive to be like. However, even though I feel this way, I must admit that this "strategy" is a very effective one. It's kinda like if you can't beat 'em, join 'em. LULAC almost praises the white anglo population and feeds their egos which I guess would be a fairly effective strategy. Make them think you want to and can be just like them, as though Mexican Americans are a little sister and white Anglo Americans are the cool big-sister.
These beliefs explain my uncle very much. He is hard-working and very individualistic. He does not participate in any arguments towards racisms of blacks, asians, arabs, indians or anything because he almost believes he is better. This is reflective of LULAC. I am proud in many ways of LULAC, but in others I find their strategies degrading and pathetic. I knew when reading this article what I wanted my post to be, so sorry that this is so long! I was pretty confused and felt strongly about the topic. I guess offended is not the right word. I just was surprised when reading this since I never knew much about this, even though it is part of my racial history.
-Amara Lopez
Quoting the article, "The organization itself adopted 'America' as its official song, English as its official language, and the 'George Washington Prayer' as its official prayer. It boasted that the League's constitution was modeled after the United States Constitution" (p 360).
"There was no doubt in their minds that through the 'upbuilding' of their peoplethey could eventually assimilate into the American melting pot" (p 361).
"In order to compete with other races, Mexican Americans would have to elevate their own 'intellectual standard'" (p 362).
"In an extended use of imagery, M. C. Gonzalez compared the Mexican American to a natural resource, albeit one in need of extensive refinement. ... but with a sturdy rig and a reliable drill of loyalty and perseverance, we can perforate through the rough matter into a better region of understanding" (p 365).
"LULAC strategists revealed a lack of commitment to the importance of group boundaries as well as an uncritical attitude toward racism. In a societ in which discrimination gainst all minority groups was pervasive, LULAC avoided interacting with blacks and made the claim that Mexican Americans were white. (p 366).
"LULAC believed a Mexican American must demonstrate his/her worthiness as a United States citizen to the white majority population" (p 359).
I think that the ideas behind LULAC were great. They needed to improve the social status of Mexican Americans. Holding trust and pride in the Constitution of the U.S. and its system is also a good quality of the organization. Keeping that education is the best means to succeed also is a positive moral of LULAC. However, after what the Anglos had done in recent history to the Mexicans, LULAC seems a bit radical in its ideals. These quotes I had pointed out are almost degrading to the Mexican American race. They should have held more pride in their culture and where they came from, and almost have more anger towards the white population they strive to be like. However, even though I feel this way, I must admit that this "strategy" is a very effective one. It's kinda like if you can't beat 'em, join 'em. LULAC almost praises the white anglo population and feeds their egos which I guess would be a fairly effective strategy. Make them think you want to and can be just like them, as though Mexican Americans are a little sister and white Anglo Americans are the cool big-sister.
These beliefs explain my uncle very much. He is hard-working and very individualistic. He does not participate in any arguments towards racisms of blacks, asians, arabs, indians or anything because he almost believes he is better. This is reflective of LULAC. I am proud in many ways of LULAC, but in others I find their strategies degrading and pathetic. I knew when reading this article what I wanted my post to be, so sorry that this is so long! I was pretty confused and felt strongly about the topic. I guess offended is not the right word. I just was surprised when reading this since I never knew much about this, even though it is part of my racial history.
-Amara Lopez
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Reading Questions for Section 9/19/08
Hey everyone,
Here are my questions from the three readings on Monday ("Harvest of Empire", Treaty of Guadalupe, and "We Called Them Greasers"). I tried to highlight the main points of each reading; they should serve as a good framework when you study for your first quiz as well.
"Harvest of Empire"
Here are my questions from the three readings on Monday ("Harvest of Empire", Treaty of Guadalupe, and "We Called Them Greasers"). I tried to highlight the main points of each reading; they should serve as a good framework when you study for your first quiz as well.
"Harvest of Empire"
1. What Latin American revolutionaries were inspired by the United States War of Independence and it’s political players? Why might this be?
2. How did U.S. Politicians then act towards Latin American countries?
3.
5. What was
6. What were filibusters? Name some specific examples.
7. What was the Monroe Doctrine? What were it’s implications?
8. What was phrenology? How did this idea relate to equality, civil rights, and slavery?
9. How did Anglo Cowboys originate?
10. Who was William Walker? What was his significance?
11. Why do you think
12. Describe business interests in Latin American countries during the 19th century. What were prominent companies and countries involved in the production and exportation of fruit?
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
13. What was the significance of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?
14. Why was it important that the U.S. eliminated Article X? Did this deletion change anything?
15. Do you think this treaty is equitable and just for Mexican citizens? Why or Why not?
“We Called Them Greasers”
16. What language / phrases in the poem exemplify the idea of Anglo superiority?
17. Why does Gloria Anzalduia use animal imagery throughout her poem?
18. Do you think this poem is a truthful representation of violence and intimidation during this time? Why or why not?
19. Does this poem evoke any kind of emotion from you? How so?
Reading Questions for Section 9/19/08
Hello friends! This week, there were five readings for AC213. We have split them into the three from Monday and the two from Wednesday. I took the ones from Wednesday which were: "Migrations Before WW II" and "A Vindication of Cuba." Below are the questions I am going to be asking to facilitate discussion in section on Friday afternoon. Enjoy!
1. Is Puerto Rico considered a "sovereign nation"?
2. What marked the first Puerto Rican migration to the US and when did it take place?
3. What major US city did most Puerto Ricans settle in during the first big migration? (**Bonus** Name five other cities mentioned in the article)
4. What was the name of a major Spanish language newspaper published in the US? Name a famous Latino writer for that newspaper from the Atillean separist movement.
5. From both readings: What did Jose Marti, a famous Cuban ex-patriate, promote as his main cause for all Latin American nations?
6. From the reading and from lecture on 9/17/08: what sparked the Spanish-Cuban-American War and who did the US blame?
7. What treaty ended the above-mentioned war and what year did that take place in? (**Bonus** what did the treaty state and why is it so crucial to Latin American AND American history?)
8. What year does Cuba gain its independance? Does Puerto Rico get that same right?
9. True of False: US involvment in Puerto Rico made Puerto Rico transition from an indiustrial economy to an economy based around agriculture.
10. What was Puerto Rico's main export PRE-US involvment? What was it replaced with after the US became involved in PR's economy?
11. Briefly describe the Foraker Act of 1900 and the Jones Act of 1917.
12. Where did Jose Marti spend most of his life?
13. What is the book of Marti's poerty named?
14. What major newspaper did Marti respond to in "A Vindication of Cuba." (I yelled this one out during lecture today so you should know it!)
15. What did Marti's letter to the editor dispute about the characteristics of Cuban men and women?
Good luck with these questions. I hope they are helpful with your readings and P.S. on Friday, there will be candy for those who participate and get the answers right!
1. Is Puerto Rico considered a "sovereign nation"?
2. What marked the first Puerto Rican migration to the US and when did it take place?
3. What major US city did most Puerto Ricans settle in during the first big migration? (**Bonus** Name five other cities mentioned in the article)
4. What was the name of a major Spanish language newspaper published in the US? Name a famous Latino writer for that newspaper from the Atillean separist movement.
5. From both readings: What did Jose Marti, a famous Cuban ex-patriate, promote as his main cause for all Latin American nations?
6. From the reading and from lecture on 9/17/08: what sparked the Spanish-Cuban-American War and who did the US blame?
7. What treaty ended the above-mentioned war and what year did that take place in? (**Bonus** what did the treaty state and why is it so crucial to Latin American AND American history?)
8. What year does Cuba gain its independance? Does Puerto Rico get that same right?
9. True of False: US involvment in Puerto Rico made Puerto Rico transition from an indiustrial economy to an economy based around agriculture.
10. What was Puerto Rico's main export PRE-US involvment? What was it replaced with after the US became involved in PR's economy?
11. Briefly describe the Foraker Act of 1900 and the Jones Act of 1917.
12. Where did Jose Marti spend most of his life?
13. What is the book of Marti's poerty named?
14. What major newspaper did Marti respond to in "A Vindication of Cuba." (I yelled this one out during lecture today so you should know it!)
15. What did Marti's letter to the editor dispute about the characteristics of Cuban men and women?
Good luck with these questions. I hope they are helpful with your readings and P.S. on Friday, there will be candy for those who participate and get the answers right!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
timeline correction
In the text (on page 18) the Toleration Act was in 1689.
Also, the first Indian treaty accounts published by Benjamin Franklin was in 1736.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Timeline Addition
By the late 1500's there were less than 2 million natives remaining in the hemisphere. This information shows how devastating to the original inhabitants the conquests were.
Timeline Fact
- 1524- Franciscan missionaries Bernardino de Sahagun and Diego de Duran developed a written form of the Nahuatl language which is the lingua franca of central Mexico. It is because of these missionaries that a few Indian accounts of the battle of Tenochtitlan survive today.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Timeline
The following is a list of important events in the Spanish & English colonization of the Americas (composed by everyone in section).
Spanish | English |
| 1350 - Black Death |
End of the plague - 1450 | 1485 - War of the Roses |
Moors fall - 1492 |
|
Ponce de Leon exploration of Florida - 1513 |
|
Nunez landed in Florida - 1527 |
|
Spanish arrive in Western US - 1540 |
|
New Laws - 1542 |
|
Harvard College Construction started - 1643 | 1649 - Maryland Toleration Act |
Meredith's Intro
Hey guys! My name is Meredith and I am a junior majoring in communications with a minor in Art History. I'm originally from Boca Raton, Florida… so I’m kind of far from home and really miss the warm weather at points during the winter. I love to travel to exotic places and really learn and experience different cultures, so I cant wait to learn more about Latino/a culture. I’m looking forward to class and getting to know you all!! See you soon!
Meredith
Meredith
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Intro
Hi! My name is Jen Kron. I'm a sophomore studying Spanish and econ, and I will be starting the school of ed next semester. I'm originally from West Bloomfield, MI, so home for me is only 40 minutes away. I'm really looking forward to learning about the Latino history and culture. As a spanish major, I think it's a great supplement to my degree. After I graduate I plan to volunteer for a year or so in Latin America teaching English.
Looking forward to the class and getting to know you all!
Hello!
Hey Everyone! My name is Braden L'Amoreaux and I'm a senior from Clarkston Michigan which is about an hour north of Ann Arbor. I am a general studies major, but I will be attending commercial flight school shortly after i graduate down in Daytona Beach, Florida. I'm taking this course because i've heard good things about it and also cause i always like to learn about different cultures and their history. Hope all is well!
Hi, I'm Steph
Hello Everyone!
My name is Stephanie, I am from Troy, MI, just 15 minutes north of detroit. I am a Spanish and Biology Major and plan on applying to medical school next year. My interests are reading, gardening, bicycling, camping, and anything else outdoors. In the past I have volunteered in a rural health clinic in south Mexico. As a doctor, I plan on working with the Latino community, so I definitely am interested in latino culture and healthcare issues. I'm very excited for this class and all of the topics that we will cover!
Intro Blog
Hi everyone! I'm Garri, a senior psychology major. I am from Roslyn, New York which is only 20 miles away from New York City. Since I live so close to NYC I know a little about Latino culture but I would love to learn more about it and thats part of the reason I am taking this class. It has been fun reading everyone's blog entries and learning more about the other people in my discussion session and I look forward to hearing everyone's opinions.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Hi, I'm Amalia =)
Hello discussion section! My name is Amalia, I'm a sophomore studying women's studies, Latino studies, and maybe Spanish too. I'm a member of SAPAC (Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center) and I also liked to be involved (at least on some level) in the Latino community. I danced in the Latino Culture show last year and it was really fun.
I spent the summer studying in Guanajuato, Mexico. I traveled to different cities in Mexico every weekend and it was great. I also got to see my family because my dad was born and raised in D.F. and surrounding areas in Mexico. I am not fluent in Spanish but I'm slowly working towards it!
I spent the summer studying in Guanajuato, Mexico. I traveled to different cities in Mexico every weekend and it was great. I also got to see my family because my dad was born and raised in D.F. and surrounding areas in Mexico. I am not fluent in Spanish but I'm slowly working towards it!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Jose's Introduction
Hi!
My name is Jose Angel Sepulveda. I am a Senior BFA Musical Theatre Major. I am from Guanica, Puerto Rico. I moved to the San Antonio, Texas when I was a Sophomore in High School. I'm the guy who likes to floss (if you remember that from discussion).
I wanted to take this class for a long time, but because of the rigorous Musical Theatre curriculum, I never had free time to take it. I'm very excited about the class and learning not just about my heritage and culture but the heritage and culture of other Latin countries.
I also joined this class because second semester I am producing/directing/choreographing a production of FOUR GUYS NAMED JOSE... AND A MUJER NAMED MARIA. Its a revue which chronicles Spanish music that has become popular in the United States from the "La Bamba" to "Livin' La Vida Loca" and I wanted to get answers to questions about other countries' music. If anyone has any thing to say to that let me know or would like to help in any way, shape or form it would be greatly appreciated!
I'm very excited about the class!
Intro Blog
Hey y'all,
My name is Amee Patel and I am a senior majoring in Political Science. I am from Athens, Georgia. I enjoy watching tv, sleeping, and hanging out. I am applying to law schools this fall and hope to be in law school this time next year. I don't have any Latino heritage, but I just thought this would be an interesting class to take. Also, as we have seen in class in the recent past there has been a large migration of latinos to the south so I was hoping to get a little more insight into their culture.
My name is Amee Patel and I am a senior majoring in Political Science. I am from Athens, Georgia. I enjoy watching tv, sleeping, and hanging out. I am applying to law schools this fall and hope to be in law school this time next year. I don't have any Latino heritage, but I just thought this would be an interesting class to take. Also, as we have seen in class in the recent past there has been a large migration of latinos to the south so I was hoping to get a little more insight into their culture.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Intro post
Hey everyone! My name is Amber Forbes and I'm a Latin American and Caribbean Studies major and can speak Spanish fairly well. I'm from Canton, Michigan (home of the Ikea). I'm a senior, but I'm not exactly sure what I'm going to do after I graduate. Maybe law school.
Like I said in class, I've worked with the Washtenaw County Worker's Center for 2 years and last year I was the coordinator of spanish speaking volunteers for the SIF project, so if any of you have any questions about what it would be like volunteering with them for your service project, feel free to ask! They desperately need a website, so I was thinking about maybe doing that for mine if anyone is interested :)
Like I said in class, I've worked with the Washtenaw County Worker's Center for 2 years and last year I was the coordinator of spanish speaking volunteers for the SIF project, so if any of you have any questions about what it would be like volunteering with them for your service project, feel free to ask! They desperately need a website, so I was thinking about maybe doing that for mine if anyone is interested :)
Intro
My name is Alex Reich. I'm a junior from just outside Chicago. I am majoring in general psychology, and would like to go into some form of public relations or advertising. I don't have any personal ties to the Latino community, but I am taking this class at the recommendation of a friend.
Intro Blog
I am sorry I am a little late on this intro blog, it is my first time using a blog and I'm just not quite used to it yet! My name is Amara Lopez, I grew up here in Ann Arbor, I am an undecided major as of right now. My dad was born in Mexico and my mother was born in Dearborn, MI. I am taking this class so I can explore my own culture a little bit more and I believe this is a very important subject to look into for anyone. I hope my interest is sparked and I could look into a major/minor in Latino Studies. I look forward to meeting everyone :).
-Amara
-Amara
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Intro Post
Hey Everyone!
My name is Channing Franko. I'm from Detroit, Michigan. I was born in Germany. My mom is Puerto Rican, and my dad is your typical American Mut. I'm a sophomore in LSA. I am an undecided major, but I will probably major in German, Spanish, Latino Studies, or a combination of these. This summer I went to Beijing, China with GIEU, and it was a great experience.
-Channing Franko
My name is Channing Franko. I'm from Detroit, Michigan. I was born in Germany. My mom is Puerto Rican, and my dad is your typical American Mut. I'm a sophomore in LSA. I am an undecided major, but I will probably major in German, Spanish, Latino Studies, or a combination of these. This summer I went to Beijing, China with GIEU, and it was a great experience.
-Channing Franko
Hello!
Hello! Everybody sounds so cool!
I'm Meredith and I'm from Pinckney Michigan, just 25 minutes away from Ann Arbor! I'm a senior Theatre Performance major. I like sketch comedy, music, and movies. I'm in a percussion group called Groove, and a band called Groove Spoon! I'm the Program Assistant for U of M's Educational Theatre Troupe, and we perform for all of the freshmen at orientation every summer! I also have 2 pet mice who are really cute. I have a play coming up in October called Madmen and the Specialists, so that's taking up most of my time as of now!
I'm really excited for this class!
I'm Meredith and I'm from Pinckney Michigan, just 25 minutes away from Ann Arbor! I'm a senior Theatre Performance major. I like sketch comedy, music, and movies. I'm in a percussion group called Groove, and a band called Groove Spoon! I'm the Program Assistant for U of M's Educational Theatre Troupe, and we perform for all of the freshmen at orientation every summer! I also have 2 pet mice who are really cute. I have a play coming up in October called Madmen and the Specialists, so that's taking up most of my time as of now!
I'm really excited for this class!
intro post
Hey all,
My name is Steph and I'm from right outside Chicago, although I'm originally from Singapore. I am a sophomore and am majoring in Spanish and Communications. My ideal job in the future would be to work as a sports marketer for the Chicago Cubs. I play club field hockey here at Michigan and participate in many other IM sports. I follow my Chicago teams and UM teams religiously. I also love traveling. I spent the summer in Argentina with a friend traveling around and taking classes. I'm looking forward to this class to understand more about Latino/a culture within the US.
Hope everyone had a good weekend,
Steph
Chelsea' Intro Post
Hi everybody - hope you had a great weekend!
My name is Chelsea Roth and I am a junior majoring in English and minoring in Art History. I am from Miami, Florida (a place that clearly has a TON of latino/a culture). I did not grow up speaking Spanish but started taking classes in first grade at my public elementary school. It is part of the public school curriculum in Miami to take Spanish classes from the time you start elementary school until you finish high school. It's hard to get a job there without being proficient in both English and Spanish!
Although the majority of my family is from the United States, my uncle married a woman of Jewish-Cuban heritage (making her what we in Miami call a Jew-ban). Now I have an extended Spanish-speaking Latino family!
Looking forward to a great semester.
Chelsea
My name is Chelsea Roth and I am a junior majoring in English and minoring in Art History. I am from Miami, Florida (a place that clearly has a TON of latino/a culture). I did not grow up speaking Spanish but started taking classes in first grade at my public elementary school. It is part of the public school curriculum in Miami to take Spanish classes from the time you start elementary school until you finish high school. It's hard to get a job there without being proficient in both English and Spanish!
Although the majority of my family is from the United States, my uncle married a woman of Jewish-Cuban heritage (making her what we in Miami call a Jew-ban). Now I have an extended Spanish-speaking Latino family!
Looking forward to a great semester.
Chelsea
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Intro Post
Hey everybody,
My name is Mia. I'm from New York City. I am a Freshman and have yet to decide my major although I'm thinking about Political Science/International Relations/Sociology. I went to an arts high school where I was a Visual Arts major. I love photography and oil painting. I especially love working with black and white film. I also enjoy playing soccer, reading, playing guitar and traveling. I spent the summer traveling through Costa Rica with my best friend. My parents are Argentinean so I grew up speaking Spanish at home.
I'm really excited about this course and look forward to meeting all of you in class.
My name is Mia. I'm from New York City. I am a Freshman and have yet to decide my major although I'm thinking about Political Science/International Relations/Sociology. I went to an arts high school where I was a Visual Arts major. I love photography and oil painting. I especially love working with black and white film. I also enjoy playing soccer, reading, playing guitar and traveling. I spent the summer traveling through Costa Rica with my best friend. My parents are Argentinean so I grew up speaking Spanish at home.
I'm really excited about this course and look forward to meeting all of you in class.
All About Arjun
Hey guys,
take a seat while I tell you all a little about me. First off, my name is Arjun Nigam and I was born in Detroit, but raised in Ann Arbor(aka. The Deuce). I'm a senior in general studies, and I'm right now applying to pharmacy schools across the U.S. My hope is to go to a warm place in California or Florida, so that I don't have to wear a jacket for once during the winter :)
I love meeting new people and hanging out with my friends. On the t.v., I watch shows like Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Family Guy. But my current top favorite, is Criss Angel Mindfreak.
Finally, I love my Detroit sports- with the Red Wings being my favorite.
That's all for now....
Shake it up,
Arjun
take a seat while I tell you all a little about me. First off, my name is Arjun Nigam and I was born in Detroit, but raised in Ann Arbor(aka. The Deuce). I'm a senior in general studies, and I'm right now applying to pharmacy schools across the U.S. My hope is to go to a warm place in California or Florida, so that I don't have to wear a jacket for once during the winter :)
I love meeting new people and hanging out with my friends. On the t.v., I watch shows like Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Family Guy. But my current top favorite, is Criss Angel Mindfreak.
Finally, I love my Detroit sports- with the Red Wings being my favorite.
That's all for now....
Shake it up,
Arjun
Intro Blog
Hi everyone,
I'm Courtney. I'm a junior and Spanish major. I live at home and commute to school from the Westland/Livonia area. In addition to school, I also work at Jimmy Johns. In my free time, I love to watch and play sports. I'm a huge football and hockey fan! I also love to just hang out and have a good time.
This is my first latino class and I'm looking forward to learning some cool stuff!
I'm Courtney. I'm a junior and Spanish major. I live at home and commute to school from the Westland/Livonia area. In addition to school, I also work at Jimmy Johns. In my free time, I love to watch and play sports. I'm a huge football and hockey fan! I also love to just hang out and have a good time.
This is my first latino class and I'm looking forward to learning some cool stuff!
Friday, September 5, 2008
Reid's Intro Post
Hey Everyone,
I am a senior at Michigan majoring in Economics. Aside from school work, I enjoy going on road trips with friends, watching Cleveland Sports Teams (Browns, Cavs, Indians) and playing basketball. My favorite TV show is 'The Office' and my favorite musician is Stevie Wonder.
Although I've never taken a Political Science or Latina/o American Studies while at Michigan, I'm very much looking forward to learning about the growing Latina/o demographic within the United States.
I look forward to meeting everyone in class, enjoy the weekend.
--Reid
I am a senior at Michigan majoring in Economics. Aside from school work, I enjoy going on road trips with friends, watching Cleveland Sports Teams (Browns, Cavs, Indians) and playing basketball. My favorite TV show is 'The Office' and my favorite musician is Stevie Wonder.
Although I've never taken a Political Science or Latina/o American Studies while at Michigan, I'm very much looking forward to learning about the growing Latina/o demographic within the United States.
I look forward to meeting everyone in class, enjoy the weekend.
--Reid
Hello and Welcome!
Hi everyone! This is your discussion section's blog. Please take advantage of it. I look forward to reading all of your posts! Again, if you have not already done so, please refer to the "How To" guide on CTools. In addition to creating an account, this document also gives quick instructions on how to edit your profile, post an entry & how to leave a comment.
Remember, you MUST create an account and post your first *test* entry by next Friday's discussion section. Feel free to write what you like. Some ideas include: background/biographic information, a list of hobbies, other Latina/o Studies courses you've taken, etc. Please email or visit me during my office hours if you have any questions.
Since I have asked all of you to introduce yourself, I should do the same. In addition to what I already shared with you in class, I have lived in California all of my life (Ann Arbor is the exception). I'm somewhat of an "outdoorsy" type of person and really enjoy walking. I am interested in various topics related to Latina/o Studies, and American Studies in general, and I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you.
See you all in class!
-Isabel
Remember, you MUST create an account and post your first *test* entry by next Friday's discussion section. Feel free to write what you like. Some ideas include: background/biographic information, a list of hobbies, other Latina/o Studies courses you've taken, etc. Please email or visit me during my office hours if you have any questions.
Since I have asked all of you to introduce yourself, I should do the same. In addition to what I already shared with you in class, I have lived in California all of my life (Ann Arbor is the exception). I'm somewhat of an "outdoorsy" type of person and really enjoy walking. I am interested in various topics related to Latina/o Studies, and American Studies in general, and I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you.
See you all in class!
-Isabel
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