Abstract

This independent study encompasses the theme of ethnic identity and the identification process of second generation Salvadoran-Americans, which are the U.S.-born children of Salvadoran immigrants who now reside in the U.S. What kind of identities are these second generation Salvadoran-Americans pulling towards? What factors are contributing to this process and to what extent? These children, now adults, were raised in an in-between place, which, I will argue, makes it difficult to grasp a true identity of who they are and how they fit into this world. In this American context, there are many factors that influence someone of color and how they choose to identify with consideration to factors such as discrimination, cultural pride, bilingualism, and the never ending battle with ethnic authenticity. Living as a minority within another minority creates challenges for this Salvadoran-American community within the larger Mexican population and is often a difficult space to navigate through regardless of racial context. As a child of a Salvadoran father and an American mother, I have pulled from personal interests and my own challenges with my Salvadoran-American identity. With this project, I hope to open a new dialogue for a population that is often overlooked. Drawing from interviews with eight Salvadoran-Americans, I explore the implications that their experiences within the American context hold for this group as well as for the larger community.

Advisor

Biagas, David

Department

Sociology and Anthropology

Disciplines

Ethnic Studies | Latina/o Studies

Keywords

Identity, Second generation, Salvadoran-Americans

Publication Date

2016

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2016 Isabel Abarca