Feminist Theory (397-0-2)

Topic

Latinx Feminism

Instructors

Alyssa D Garcia

Meeting Info

Parkes Hall 223: Mon 11:00AM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

This course examines the diverse layers and heterogenous experiences of Latinas in the United States across space and time. Epistemologically we will question and discuss central concepts of what constitutes Latinidad in its multiple forms. We will interrogate the complex identities of Latina lives amidst intersections of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, and other social dimensions (age, education, language, and citizenship).

We will trace the dynamic historical transformations, legacies of colonialism/imperialism and ongoing oppressions that shape Latina life, as well as investigate how these women define, understand and critique their respective struggles/ activism from their specific cultural and social locations. This course will provide an overview of the intellectual/theoretical interventions of Latina/Chicana feminist thought to highlight how it breaks from, links, and intersects with mainstream modes of feminism, civil rights movements and other social mobilizations.

It will offer a nuanced analysis of empowerment and self-determination, to consider how Latina feminists have made important historical, academic, cultural, and political contributions to inspire change and activism in innovative ways. Working within an interdisciplinary framework deeply rooted in Latina lived experiences, we will examine various themes such as work, masculinity, family, migration, violence, representation etc, via nonfiction, fiction, poetry, film, art, theatre, music, and personal/collective testimonios.

Registration Requirements

Attendance at first class is mandatory;

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course students will be able to:
 Describe historical and contemporary forces, actors, and events that affect the Latina experience
 Deconstruct dominant narratives of Latinas over time
 Conceptualize theoretical notions of Intersectionality
 Critically analyze how Intersectionality shapes the experiences of Latinas
 Identify and articulate key themes of Latina feminist thought and practice  Understand some of the contributions of Latinas to U.S. society
 To recognize the complex relationship between Latina agency/ resistance/activism and institutional structures via case studies (such as labor, health, education, immigration, and violence)
 Develop an appreciation of ‘voice'/representation through testimonio and alternative methods of expression or writing

Teaching Method

Class participation, discussion, case studies, films, student presentations, readings, online postings, writing assignments, guest speakers

Evaluation Method

30% Participation (Attendance, Discussion, Online Postings, Homework)
20% Weekly Notes/Summaries
10% Class Facilitation
10% Online Article Presentation
15% Essays
10% Essay #1 Testimonio
5% Essay #2 Film Critique 15% Final

Class Materials (Required)

Gloria Anzaldua, Borderlands. Xochitl Gonzalez, Olga Dies Dreaming, and additional course materials will be provided on Canvas.