Cambio de Colores (Change of Colors)

In Missouri - A Call to Action

Presenter: Christina Vasquez Case, Graduate Student (Ph.D.), University of Missouri-Columbia

Advisor: Dr. Rex Campbell, University of Missouri-Columbia

Mailing Address: 25013 Ridgeway Court, Boonville, Missouri 65233

Telephone numbers: (660) 882-8527 or (572) 882-6085

Email: cvca47@mizzou.edu

Presentation Title: A Micro-Level Perspective: Learning About the Newcomers to Missouri Towns.

Abstract:

Missouri, as have other Mid Western states, has experienced an influx of Hispanics migrating into traditional, predominantly Caucasian communities that results in new challenges for community leaders and residents. I will provide a micro-level perspective of Hispanics who are the newcomers in five Mid-Missouri communities. Providing a perspective of the Hispanics' portfolios with; educational levels, English language proficiencies, translators, reasons for migration to that Missouri community, and etc. In addition, I will identify challenges communities have encountered from the Hispanic influx by providing a comparison of how their social and economic well being are affected in Sedalia, California, Columbia, Jefferson City, and Marshall, Missouri. We will also look at how communities are building networks to work with the Hispanic residents. Furthermore, I will identify some of the issues arising from the Hispanic influx that might provide a greater understanding of the Hispanic experience in these Mid-Missouri communities.