Sophia Zuniga,

Sponsor or Client: 

Title:

"The Health And Political Effects of COVID-19 On Latine Migrants In Rio Grande Valley Communities"

Abstract:

This research project will contextualize the political, health, and social effects and impacts of COVID-19 among Latina/o migrants in Rio Grande Valley communities. Combining a review of scholarly literature on Mexican and Latina/o migrants among the South Texas border region, with a reading of news reporting on how this population group has been affected by the pandemic. It will discuss how local communities have seen a rise in both Latina/o migrants and the unvaccinated testing positive for COVID-19. Next, it will draw on surveying 50 local Latina/o residents, which will provide various perspectives on this current issue. As well as conduct 10 exit interviews Finally, this research project will argue that the COVID 19 pandemic, not only affects Latina/o migrants seeking refuge, but also the local communities, due to the lack of proper healthcare and sanitation. In the potential findings of this research project, it will use qualitative surveys, popular articles, and news sound bites to argue that this ongoing political and social issue occurred prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.