(18 credits)
Between 1992 and 2000, the Latino and Latina population of Connecticut increased by 40 percent, from 228,000 to 320,000 residents. The majority of Latinos and Latinas in Connecticut are Puerto Rican, and in 2000 they accounted for 61% of all Latinos. The second-largest Latino and Latina group in Connecticut is “Other Hispanics” at 30 percent, consisting of a mixture of Central and South American nationals. (Oboler & Gonzalez, 2012). Three cities have the largest concentrations of Latinos and Latinas in the state: Hartford, Bridgeport, and New Haven. Together these cities account for 38 percent of the state’s Latino and Latina residents. It is projected that Latinos will comprise 29% of the total population of the United States by 2050, making them the largest minority group in the country (Pew Research Center, 2008).
Multiculturalism, diversity, and a commitment to social justice are included among the core values of the University of Saint Joseph. In turn, USJ is committed to preparing professionals to meet the increasing demand for cultural and linguistically competent services by teaching our students about Latinos across the diaspora including immigration, acculturation, and cultural preservation. Moreover, students will also develop projects that meet the needs of Latino communities.
The Latino Community Practice Minor increases Latino cultural knowledge and Spanish language proficiency. It is open to students in every major in both the Women’s College and Program for Adult Learners.
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