Relational Formations of Race: Theory, Method, and Practice

by Natalia Molina, Daniel Martinez HoSang (Editor), Ramón A. Gutiérrez (Editor)

Relational Formations of Race brings African American, Chicanx/Latinx, Asian American, and Native American studies together in a single volume, enabling readers to consider the racialization and formation of subordinated groups in relation to one another. These essays conceptualize racialization as a dynamic and interactive process; group-based racial constructions are formed not only in relation to whiteness, but also in relation to other devalued and marginalized groups. The chapters offer explicit guides to understanding race as relational across all disciplines, time periods, regions, and social groups. By studying race relationally, and through a shared context of meaning and power, students will draw connections among subordinated groups and will better comprehend the logic that underpins the forms of inclusion and dispossession such groups face. As the United States shifts toward a minority-majority nation, Relational Formations of Race offers crucial tools for understanding today’s shifting race dynamics.
 

Genres: Race, Nonfiction

384 pages, Paperback

Published February 26, 2019

About the author

Dr. Natalia Molina is Distinguished Professor of American Studies and Ethnicity at the University of Southern California. Professor Molina is a 2020 MacArthur fellow, and her work sits at the intersections of race, culture, immigration, and citizenship with the goal of helping us understand everyday issues in the world today.

Reviews

[Tea and Spite · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was at least a readable introduction to relational theories of racial constructs. I wouldn't call it engaging, but it's better than other offerings out there.