The Triple Double: Racially Ambiguous Afro-Latino Identities in America

Author

Yen Rodriguez, Kennesaw State UniversityFollow

Date of Award

12-2014

Degree Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Master of Arts in American Studies (MAST)

Department

Interdisciplinary Studies

Committee Chair/First Advisor

Dr. Jesse Benjamin

Second Advisor

Dr. Ernesto Silva

Abstract

Historically, racial identities in the United States of America have operated on a binary platform of ethno-racial consideration. In turn, this system has classified most racially ambiguous members of society into categories that fail to acknowledge the complexity of their ethnic and racial identities. These pre-determined classifications have lasting effects on the accessibility of opportunities and the social spaces available to ethno-racially unidentifiable members of society. These groups of racially ambiguous Americans, however, challenge the efficacy of an 'either/or' binary system. This piece outlines a learning community for first year students, exploring the ethno-racial ambiguity of Afro-Latino identities in America. By exploring trends associated with the Center for Strategic and International Studies' projection of the Seven Global Challenges, this course of study considers how intercultural identities and values contribute factor into future global societies.

Also, this piece explores issues regarding contemporary Afro-Latino identities in America, from their Diasporic colonial origins to their infusion with North American space and culture. Through an analysis of the conflicts associated with the collision of Afro-Latinos and African American cultures and identities, this research will examine whether Afro-Latinos, in an effort to assimilate, are led to abandon their familiar cultural identities to adapt to their surroundings and whether those identities are chosen personally or are influenced by society. Are Hispanics approaching assimilation by strategically choosing when and where to be black or white versus Latino and how do these choices affect their ability to assimilate?