In this working paper Dr. Ruiz analyzes previously published selections of poetry written by Chicano and Puerto Rican poets from Detroit in the 1980s. The two major themes expressed and analyzed in this selection reflect two central concerns of the Latino community of this city. The first theme is that of retaining pride in their cultural heritage in spite of the pressures exerted by the dominant, hegemonic culture and society. The second theme deals with the social conditions and problems endured by Detroit’s predominantly working class Latinos in their struggle for existence.

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