Center for Comparative Studies in Race & Ethnicity

"Navigating spaces where I could not have critical conversations about my identity as a student of color, learn from others' lived experiences, and be in community was something I was missing, especially in academic spaces. However, this changed once I decided to take an intro to Latinx Studies. My experience changed completely, and I was introduced to an intimate safe space where I found mi comunidad. I started to heal and learn about liberation and what it means to advocate for my communities. Throughout the Chicana/o-Latina/o Studies classes I took, I gained more hope to change. Learning from the instructor, Dr. Ramirez, and my peers, I gained the sentiment I lost by seeing so much harm in so many communities. This program has shaped me as a whole person. In every aspect of my life, I carry with me practices and lessons I learned in class, readings, and from authors. I started to apply those to my daily life and to my communities. I hope to continue creating and being part of spaces where people can have a safe space to heal, feel a sense of belonging, and feel empowered to advocate for themselves and their communities."