The purpose of my project entails bringing awareness to the linguistic and cultural diversity of Yucatec Mayan Sign Language (YMSL) by analyzing the unique qualities of this indigenous language through a sociolinguistic lens. Many visual/manual languages such as British Sign Language and Mexican Sign Language are well-studied and categorized as national languages because the majority of the country’s signers already use them – the language is widespread. On the other end of the spectrum, Yucatec Mayan Sign Language is categorized according to the progression of its usage. Therefore, this language is classified as emerging, meaning it is relatively new to linguistic knowledge and coming from a smaller group of communicators. To fully grasp the multifaceted nature of YMSL’s presence and impact, I analyzed various sources that explore the language’s characteristics, uses, and sociolinguistic contexts within two Mayan communities: Chicán and Nokhop. By researching this field, I hope to bring visibility to the sign language utilized by residents with and without hearing disabilities in communities of the Yucatán Peninsula, unveiling diverse knowledge regarding the multimodality of Yucatec Mayan Sign Language.
Tang Ping (躺平) and Quiet Quitting have become popular concepts embraced by many young people in China and the U.S., referring to a simple lifestyle without effort making. This research project explores the impact and similarities between Tang Ping and Quiet Quitting and their impact on the younger generations between China and the U.S. In this comparative study, the research team collected data through surveys and semi-structured interviews with instructors and students in both countries, to investigate whether this is a generational or cultural issue, looking at how this will impact the student’s future as they advance into the workforce. This study will take an integrated lens to examine this concept in relation to other sociocultural aspects. This study will illuminate the connections between these two cultural issues and their prominent impact on the young generation and society, as well as offer suggestions for teaching and learning.
This research examines the forced internal displacement of individuals during the armed conflict between the Peruvian state and Sendero Luminoso in the 1980s. It specifically addresses the findings of the Comisión de la Verdad y Reconciliación (CVR), Truth and Reconciliation Commission, regarding internal displacement and analyzes why it was not prioritized in public policy. Despite the widespread internal displacement of Peruvians, state responses remained limited, leading to long-term socio-economic marginalization. This study takes on a historical and policy analysis approach using sources to evaluate state policies addressing the internal displacement. Particular attention is given to the Programa de Apoyo al Repoblamiento (PAR), Program for Support to the Repopulation of Peru, a state initiative aimed at reintegrating internally displaced populations. The research assesses its implementation, challenges, and impact on affected communities. This research highlights how internal displacement occurred during the conflict, how the Truth and Reconciliation Commission recognized it, and how the Program for Support to the Repopulation of Peru addressed it. It examines the plan’s recommendations, achievements, and obstacles, providing insight into Peru’s displacement crisis and the state’s challenges in supporting affected communities.
This research explores how Chinese cuisine has evolved in the United States, focusing on the historical adaptations made by early Chinese immigrants and the ongoing cultural shifts reflected in contemporary Chinese food. Existing scholarship highlights how immigrant communities modify traditional cuisine to align with local tastes, often creating a hybrid culinary identity. To investigate this phenomenon, I conducted interviews with Chinese exchange students to compare authentic Chinese food with its American counterpart and surveyed American students to understand their perceptions of American Chinese cuisine. The findings suggest that the evolution of Chinese food in the U.S. reflects broader cultural adaptation processes, where historical necessity has given way to modern innovation and cross-cultural exchange. As cultural identity continues to shape perceptions of authenticity, food remains a powerful medium for connection and mutual understanding. Future research should further examine how cultural adaptation extends beyond cuisine into markets, traditions, and perspectives, deepening our understanding of how cultures influence and reshape one another.
