American Studies 305 - Gender, Migration, Power

Spring
2015
01
4.00
Leah Schmalzbauer
TTH 10:00AM-11:20AM
Amherst College
AMST-305-01-1415S
CHAP 205
lschmalzbauer@amherst.edu
AMST-305-01,SOCI-305-01

(Offered as AMST 305 and SOCI 305.)  In this course we draw from sociology, anthropology, and geography to explore the gendered dynamics and experiences of Latino migration to the United States. We begin by situating gendered patterns of migration in the context of contemporary globalization and relating them to social constructions of gender. Next we look at experiences of settlement, analyzing the role of women’s and men’s networks in the process of migration, especially in terms of employment and survival strategies. We also analyze how specific contexts of reception influence the gender experience of settlement. For example, how does migration to rural areas differ from migration to traditional urban migration hubs, and how does gender influence that difference?  We then look at Latino family formation, paying special attention to the experiences of transnational mothers and fathers, those who have left children behind in their home countries in the process of migration. Finally, we explore the relationship between migration and sexuality.


Limited to 20 students.  Spring semester.  Professor Schmalzbauer.

Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.