Communication ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-15-2021

Abstract

This study explores the vernacular discourse of unionized Mexican immigrants living and working in Orange County in California. Given the current political climate and the historical roots of the construction of "race" in the United States, I explore how the current sociopolitical conditions of organized Latina/o affect their understanding of race and their experiences with racism. It is also important to address the everyday racism the Latina/o community faces that continue to marginalize them. This study focuses on the vernacular discourses on race and racism of organized working-class Latinas/os who are members of labor unions. Through intentional conversations about racial constructions, we can begin to analyze the discourse we engage with as Latinas/os living in the United States. The national political climate of hostility toward both unions and immigrants—particularly Latina/o immigrants- has been most prominent since 2016 with the Trump presidency.

Language

English

Keywords

latinos, latinas, vernacular, california, communication, critical race theory

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Communication

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Department of Communication and Journalism

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Susana Martínez Guillem

Second Committee Member

Dr. Ilia Rodríguez

Third Committee Member

Dr. Myra Washington

Fourth Committee Member

Dr. Nancy López

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