Publication Date

2024

Document Type

Student Project

First Advisor

Abrea, Christina

Department

Department of Political Science

Abstract

This study captures the perspectives and experiences of eight Latinx college-aged students from mixed-status families related to civil engagement. The paper demonstrates that students’ experiences within their mixed-status families and their academic experiences shaped how they understood their level of civic engagement and informed their career paths. The eight oral history interviews conducted as part of this project show that most of the participants consider their level of political involvement as insufficient. Interviews reveal an understanding of “civic engagement” that exists on an evolving spectrum of participation. Participants shared that work responsibilities and family obligations made it difficult to participate civically, but student organizations actively encouraged them to become involved in advocacy or community-engaged activities.

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

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