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Current Research Interests

Abstract

An examination of the presence of female role models in Chicano/Latino Literature for and depicting Chicana/Latinas in U.S. culture in novels by Julia Alvarez, Oscar Hijuelos, Nicholasa Mohr, and Michele Serros.

An examination of selected novels by Julia Alvarez, Oscar Hijuelos, Nicholasa Mohr and Michele Serros to explore the presence of Chicana/Latina role models. Analysis focuses on central characters as they encounter situations of race, class and gender oppression and exhibit a balance of non-traditional and traditional cultural roles for a positive experience in the U.S.

A brief history is include that describes the shift in Chicana/Latina presence in the realm of literature, and explores the stereotypes that have pressured and falsely described a collective culture of a Hispanic people. The works of the above-mentioned authors oppose such a stereotype and succeed in breaking down the false images of Chicana/Latinas in the U.S. society.

Biography

My name is Eva Navarijo and I am a Senior at Washington State University. I am double majoring in English Literature with a concentration on Writer’s of Color and Comparative American Cultures with an emphasis on Multicultural Literature and Pedagogy. Teaching has always been my career interest and ultimately, I plan to teach at the University level in an Ethnic Studies Department. To achieve my goal, I have stayed active in college, focusing on both my studies and involving myself in the community.

I am currently involved with the community in several ways. I am a member of Gamma Alpha Omega Sorority, Incorporated, Washington State University’s first Chicana/Latina Sorority. Also, I am currently serving as Co-Chair for Mujeres Unidas. Both organizations excel in empowering young Chicana/Latina women and encouraging young people of color to strive for a higher education. During my college career I have participated in the Multicultural Student Mentor Program, residence hall government, and either chaired or participated in various other student group organizations.

Being a person of color myself has helped me realize the importance of having Multicultural Literature in the classroom and I would like to play an active role in encouraging this trend in education systems of the future.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Gamma Alpha Omega Sorority, Incorporated

Links

Department of English

Deparment of Comparative American Cultures

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