Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Zabriskie, Queen

Area of Concentration

Anthropology

Abstract

By utilizing dance and performance ethnography in tandem with the practice of bomba (an Afro-Puerto Rican dance, genre, and drum), this thesis seeks to understand the themes of belonging and connection amongst Latine students at New College of Florida, a predominately White institution (PWI). How may dance act as a safe space, or counterspace, for students of marginalized identities to foster a sense of belonging? Can connecting to one another, despite our cultural differences within the Latine diaspora, lend itself to finding “home” in an otherwise hostile PWI? According to this study’s participants, finding familiar aspects of one’s culture amongst peers and entering a space with the intention of understanding, a sense of belonging can be fostered on campus. The concept and creation of counterspaces, in conjunction with safe spaces, can also lend itself to understanding how Latine students find a sense of belonging at a PWI. Further, connection between a student’s heritage and their peers of similar descent may also contribute to fostering belonging between students and the physical landscape and location of their institution, in this case, New College.

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