Casa Zapata Archive: Exploring the History and Evolution of Stanford's Latinx Ethnic-Theme Dorm through Archival, Visual, and Spatial Documentation
Abstract
This project focuses on building a living archive for Casa Zapata, a Latinx-themed Stanford dorm, to capture and reflect the diverse experiences of past and present residents. Inspired by the Native American Cultural Center's archive, "Indigenous Excellence at Stanford" (2023), the project emphasizes community-based research that centers student voices and community input. By engaging with participatory methods, this archive aims to authentically represent the dorm's evolution, from its roots in student activism to its present-day manifestation. The project highlights the role of student activism in shaping ethnic-themed dorms and community spaces at Stanford, expanding the understanding of Casa Zapata’s diverse community. Through this archive, I seek to honor its residents' historical and contemporary experiences, elevate the importance of activism in shaping these spaces, and contribute to an ongoing, collectively-constructed resource that reflects the dorm’s continued growth and relevance.