I chose this book for a couple of reasons. The first
is that I think it does a great job addressing the
multicultural experiences of members of minority
groups. It challenges the notion of race as a fixed
identity, and defies categorization or assignment of
race-based traits. The author identifies with various
cultural and ethnic groups: mestiza, chicana, and
tejana. She is also simultaneously at odds with
members of these groups for her lesbian, feminist
beliefs. Anzaldua struggles to identify a heritage of
her own.
My second reason for this selection is its use of
various languages and dialects the author uses. The
author's use of standard English, working class and
slang English, standard Spanish, Chicano Spanish,
Tex-Mex, and Pachuco belies the complexities of
Spanish-speaking peoples and their cultures. As a
future Spanish teacher, I want my students to be aware
of the diverse forms and uses of the language and its
reflection on its speakers.
According to one review, "Borderlands is an account of
where we, as Americans, have been and where we are
headed, a meeting ground for all people who realize
that the work of the 21st century will be about the
coming together of diverse cultures."
My questions (some for Anzaldua, some are general
musings):
1. How are borderlands different today than during
her upbringing?
2. How is support and tolerance for gays in Latino
communities today?
3. How does she bring her struggle with cultures,
languages, and sexuality to bear on her life today?
4. What does the Chicana/Latina feminist movement
look like today?
5. How can I use this text in my teaching of 14-15 year-olds?
Submitted by Sarah Whiteside.