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Critical Ethnic Studies

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Minor in

Critical Ethnic Studies

In this interdisciplinary field of study, we will seek to understand the ways in which societies are culturally and institutionally constituted by ideas of race, ethnicity, gender, migrations, sexuality, disability, mental health, class and nation.

Critical ethnic studies minor at ÃÛѨÊÓƵ

You might take:

Intro to CRES and Social Justice

This introductory course will draw upon various interdisciplinary approaches and critical debates to understand the constructions and intersections of race and ethnicity both within the United States and globally. The class will discuss both historical and contemporary debates, theoretical frameworks and various interdisciplinary methodological approaches within Ethnic Studies and Transnational Ethnic Studies to instill an understanding of the discipline of "Critical Ethnic Studies." (CRES 200)

Race & Ethnicity

This course delves into the roles and experiences of racial and ethnic minorities in the United States. Historical knowledge of the role of race in the formation of the U.S. and the current state of dominant-minority relations. (SOAN 265)

Latin American Cultures Through Film

Study of cultural identity in film through the lens of gender, class and race. Focus on marginal groups in different societies from Latin America, individual and collective history. Inquiry into relevant historical periods of countries studies. Screenings of films, student presentations, lectures and discussion. In Spanish. (GLSP 362)

Hear from Critical Ethnic Studies Students

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photo of Christopher Johnson.

CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON

“I am minoring in Critical Ethnic Studies because I believe it to be an important field of study that will go well with my major in Environmental Policy. Racism is very alive in America and around the world, and I think that we all need to educate ourselves on how to most effectively fight this. We need to uplift marginalized voices and we need to hear their words. There are still huge racial disparities that need to be fixed that many people deny. Where I grew up, these types of conversations tend to not happen. In fact, I often saw negative stereotypes towards other ethnic groups. Political policies that uplift marginalized groups are necessary. From an environmental perspective, environmental racism and environmental justice are huge issues that need to be addressed. The more I learn the more I can help. It is especially important to learn in a time where this type of education is being attacked.”

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photo of Haylie Vaught.

HAYLIE VAUGHT ’25

“I will be receiving my ESOL endorsement and I find that much of what we learn in “Critical Ethnic Studies” is going to be useful in teaching and assisting my future non-native English speaking students. My goal is to become a superintendent, CRES has broadened my perspective and will aid me in assisting my future school district.”

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photo of Mia Fajardo.

MIA FAJARDO ’26

“As a Nursing major, I wanted a minor that would help me better understand my patients and those around me, that is why I chose Critical Ethnic Studies. During my time in my respective field I will come across an array of individuals from a variety of different racial groups. This minor has allowed me to better understand the racial disparities that different individuals face, which in turns helped me to become a more empathetic person. Studying ethics has also improved my ability to engage in difficult moral dialogue with people who have different perspectives from me. Additionally, it has helped me to solidify my values and think reflectively about those values as I learn more about the world and my place in it.”

Request More Information

Have questions about critical ethnic studies at ÃÛѨÊÓƵ? Reach out!

Reshmi Dutt-Ballerstadt
Edith Green Distinguished Professor
Director of Critical Ethnic Studies and Professor in the Department of English