Research Description:

La Perspectiva Latina: Perceptions of Immigration among U.S. Latinos

In recent years, the U.S. has seen a heavy influx of immigrants from Mexico, the Caribbean, and especially Central and South America. The most recent population projections (based on the 2000 Census) indicate that by 2025, the Latino population will total roughly 61 million people, and will account for nearly one out of every five (18.2%) people living in the U.S. Despite Latinos’ sizeable presence in the U.S., political and cultural scientists define the Latino immigrants as “selective assimilators,” a group which adapts its own version of mainstream culture.

I propose to learn more about the unique Latino experience by studying the differing attitudes toward immigration between generations of Latinos. The issues I will cover include, but are not limited to, reactions toward language (i.e. as a potential barrier  bilingual education) and immigration policy. I will compile and consolidate a broad national overview of the topic, in conjunction with a focused study based in Florida.

Using the UF Latin American Collection and online research databases such as the Pew Hispanic Center, I will conduct research on national patterns of immigration, the impact of immigration on geographical areas of high Latino concentration, and relevant legislation and policy.

I also hope to begin a case study of the varying attitudes toward immigration between the generations of Latino families in Florida. The South Floridian Latino population (tentatively, the Cuban community) will provide the setting for this project.

By comparing and contrasting the national data and individual responses, I believe an image of an awakening “sleeping giant” will emerge  that is, that Latino immigrants are finding their place and their voice in American society. I hope this work will be useful in the quest to understand America’s largest minority and its role in the political sphere.