San Rafael Catholic church

Latinx Oral History Lab

Mission

The Latinx Oral History Lab, nestled within the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts (CISA) at ASU, stands as a beacon of cultural storytelling and academic excellence. In alignment with ASU's designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), our mission is to amplify Latinx voices from the East Valley and beyond, capturing the rich tapestry of experiences that form the core of our community's narrative.

About us

Our lab is more than a repository of tales; it is a crucible where storytelling is honored as both an art and a science. Co-directed by esteemed scholars Associate Professor Vanessa Fonseca-Chávez and Assistant Professor Rafael Martínez, the lab is a collaborative effort that stitches together the past and present to inspire a more inclusive future.

Support

Engagement opportunities

  • Participate in our oral history interviews and contribute to the preservation of Latinx narratives.
  • Engage with us during public events like ASU Open Door, showcasing the vibrancy of Latinx stories.

Funding and development

  • Support our quest for funding to bring specialized projects to life.
  • Assist in establishing co-created endeavors with our local communities to strengthen communal ties.

Upcoming highlights

  • Querencia exhibit: Witness a unique display of Latinx heritage at the ASU Chandler Innovation Center all of spring 2024, organized by Assistant Professor Rafael Martínez in collaboration with the Chandler Museum.
  • Check out the latest publication in the "Following the Manito Trail" story
    • Fonseca-Chávez, Vanessa. “We Were Always Chicanos, or, We Did it Our Way: Situated Citizenship in the Equality State.” Histories of Cultures of Latinas: Suffrage, Activism and Women’s Rights, edited by Montse Feu and Yolanda Padilla. Houston: Arte Público Press. Fall 2023
  • Public History and Archival Access: Explore comprehensive collections across multiple universities, featuring the pivotal works of our co-directors.

Affiliated faculty

Our interdisciplinary team brings a unique perspective from Latinx spirituality to media studies and health determinants. Together, we explore the interwoven aspects of Latinx identity, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of our community.

Location

Centrally located at the ASU Polytechnic campus in Santa Catalina Hall (SANCA) 230A, next to the CRUX Lab, our doors are open for collaboration, conversation and community engagement.

Connect with us

We're here to engage, listen and collaborate. Visit us at ASU Polytechnic campus, Santa Catallina Hall (SANCA) 230A, or reach out through our social media and contact details. Your story is our history — let's preserve it with the honor it deserves. Become an advocate for the Latinx narrative. Partner with us to expand the horizons of Latinx representation in academia and beyond. Your insights, stories, and support are the keystones of our endeavor. Together, let's weave a tapestry of stories that span continents and generations.

Associate Professor Vanessa Fonseca-Chávez: vfonseca@asu.edu
Assistant Professor Rafael Martínez: r.martinez@asu.edu