On February 17, Dr. Maldonado of the Department of Anthropology presented at the University of Illinois, LAS Get Experience Expo, showcasing the work of her students from the Fall 2025 Collaborative Methodologies course. Central to this presentation was the students' development of a "Know Your Rights" (KYR) brochure, designed to assist Spanish and Q'anjob'al speakers navigating the Traffic Court System.
The project involved interviews with community members, public defenders, a Q'anjob'al court interpreters, and organizations serving migrant populations, demonstrating the profound impact of community-based research. Representing the various parts of the Maya in the Global Midwest project were Senior Aylin Viquez, Dr. Maldonado, and graduate student Nathalie Martinez (not in the picture), a critical collaborator in this project.
This work exemplified how collaborative methods in anthropology not only produce practical, accessible resources but also empower marginalized communities by improving access to legal information and fostering equity. Through these methodologies, students gained firsthand experience of how anthropology can address real-world challenges, enhancing both their academic and civic engagement. The presentation underscored the power of collaborative research to build meaningful connections and promote social justice within local communities.