Echoes of Belonging: Evoking Positive Emotions and Memories to Strengthen Latinx Immigrant Community

Jose Murrugarra // Advisor: Kim Montes

Echoes of Belonging: Evoking Positive Emotions and Memories to Strengthen Latinx Immigrant Community

When one emigrates to another country in search of better opportunities, it often comes with a sense of loneliness and anxiety, as they must start from scratch, leaving behind their friends and family, and adapting to a new culture with minimal support. In such a context, having a strong, united community becomes essential to help immigrants navigate the difficult initial months and adjust to their new reality. Latinx immigration has increased in recent years, doubling the number of immigrants between 2000 and 2022, growing from approximately 130,000 to 252,400. As a result, 22% of Philadelphia’s population is Latinx (Philadelphia Research and Policy Initiative, 2024). Despite this growth, there are few spaces where the Latinx community can come together, connect with their roots, and create meaningful interactions that foster a sense of belonging and cultural pride. As a designer, I am motivated to address this gap by focusing my work on helping create a consolidated and united Latinx community. My goal is to design spaces where immigrants can feel at home and find support, allowing individuals to connect with their emotions, strengthen their identity, and feel supported as they adapt to a new country and reality.

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