Mexico Virtual Lecture Series
Mexico Immigration: The South Bend Case
Mexican immigrants are the largest immigrant group in South Bend, and one that is growing. In this lecture and discussion, we learn about the demographic profiles of these new immigrants, why they have come to the Midwest, and South Bend, in particular, the history of their migration and settlement and how they are adapting and contributing to South Bend economic and social life. Using research findings of Notre Dame Latino Studies students and scholars, we will cover the innovative adaptations of this migrant community, especially the growth of an ethnic enclave of small businesses that both unite Mexicans as an ethnic group and sustain their ties to their homelands. Kinship networks, economic relations, political activities and religious practices involve Mexicans in home and diaspora locations. The relationships between Mexicans' immigrant integration and their transnational allegiances are key to understanding their lives in South Bend.
Karen Richman is director of undergraduate studies and professor of the practice at Notre Dame’s Institute for Latino Studies. She is a cultural anthropologist whose scholarship and teaching has been recognized with awards for Open Course Ware Excellence, the Heizer award for the best journal article in ethnohistory and Newberry Library and Social Science Research Council fellowships.Her current research project is an interdisciplinary study of Mexican immigrants’ social wealth, savings and retirement supported by the National Endowment for Financial Education.
The Mexico Virtual Lecture Series is a recurring online event intended to highlight the deep connections between Notre Dame and Mexico. Each lecture focuses on the current work of a Notre Dame faculty member or researcher, covering topics that vary widely from medical research to the social sciences and arts and culture.
The series is intended for a general audience and can be viewed via Zoom. Pre-registration for the session is requested and the Zoom link will be made available once registration is received.
PLEASE NOTE: Indicated event times are Eastern Daylight Time (11:00am - 12:30pm CDT).
Originally published at mexicocity.nd.edu.