Introduction to Comparative Ethnic Studies

This book guides instructors and students through an intersectional and comparative approach to understanding key theories, concepts, practices, and movements in Ethnic Studies.

Written for introductory courses and for those new to Ethnic Studies, the book explores the decolonial legacies and origins of Ethnic Studies before delving into a broad array of vital and vivid topics including music and performance, U.S. militarism and migration, racial capitalism, gender and sexuality, environmental activism, and liberation through education, amongst others. Each chapter introduces the decolonial process of love, knowledge, and revolution rooted in the theoretical and activist lineages of Ethnic Studies as an academic discipline.

Key features include:

• A focus on providing a range of diverse perspectives to help students develop critical self-awareness that nurtures a love for self and community.
• A comparative approach that interweaves exemplary historical figures and preeminent scholars to empower students to view themselves within a continuum of an ongoing struggle for freedom.
• Textboxes across the volume that highlight case studies and provide historical context to enhance student understanding.
• Discussion questions in each chapter that aid engagement with the ideas presented and develop the reader’s critical thinking skills.
• A glossary of key terms.

This book will be essential reading for students and teachers of courses in Ethnic Studies, and those interested in learning about the complex processes of race making and power through the lens of multiracial lived experiences in the United States.

Carlos Manuel Salomon is Professor of Ethnic Studies at California State University, East Bay. Dr. Salomon is the editor of The Routledge History of Latin American Culture (2019) and the author of Pio Pico: The Last Governor of Mexican California (2010).

Jocyl Sacramento is Associate Professor of Ethnic Studies at California State University, East Bay.

Jennifer Kim-Anh Tran is Assistant Professor of Ethnic Studies at California State University, East Bay. As an Oakland organizer, Dr. Tran leads inclusive community development initiatives that center the needs and expertise of immigrants and people of color in her hometown.

Nicholas L. Baham, III is Professor of Ethnic Studies at California State University, East Bay. He teaches Black Studies and Genders and Sexualities in Communities of Color. Dr. Baham’s books include The Coltrane Church: Apostles of Sound, Agents of Social Justice (2015) and The People's Detective (2024).