Presentation description

This project asserts that Latinidad, or Latinx identity, is not new to Utah. Throughout the years, varied Utah Latinx groups have developed different mechanisms for maintaining their Latinidad. In this project, we analyze four oral histories from members of the Utah Puerto Rican dance group Bomba Marilé. In particular, we demonstrate how concepts such as cultural citizenship, convivencia diária, or daily living, and insistence and belonging shape Puertorriquenidad, or Puerto Rican Latinidad. The findings highlight intra- and inter-ethnic interactions that help develop a sense of belonging in Utah, a place not known as welcoming towards non-LDS communities in general, and non-white LDS communities in particular. Implications of the study are discussed in the context of the increased growth and diversity of Utah's Latinx ethnic groups.