Precarious familismo among Latinas/os/xs: Toward a critical theoretical framework centering queer communities

Abstract

Among the Latina/o/x community, familismo is often deemed as one of the most important institutions of support. Research has consistently demonstrated the various and affirming ways in which the cultural value of familismo is manifested across Latina/o/x familial structures (e.g., unconditional support, acceptance, reciprocity, collectivism, protection, loyalty). Despite such assertions, familismo is not necessarily expressed in the same positive manners toward queer members of the family. After surveying the literature on familial structures and relationships among Latinas/os/xs, including queer individuals, and familismo dimensions, I noted limitations in the ways familismo scholarship is discussed. Consequently, I build on previous conceptions of precarious familismo as a more critical and inclusive theoretical framework of queer Latina/o/x experiences and broader familial relationships.