Supporting New American Communities in Utah
This Praxis Lab explored the complexities and strengths of immigrant and refugee communities in the Salt Lake City area, a long-standing U.S. resettlement site. With over 17,000 refugees in Utah and approximately 1,000 new arrivals each year, the course examined the challenges and opportunities facing these New Americans, including language barriers, social systems navigation, and cultural capital. At the same time, students explored the rich histories, perspectives, and multicultural contributions these communities bring to Utah.
Through a university-community partnership approach, students engaged in an action-scholar framework, collaborating with community partners to design and implement projects that supported integration efforts. The course emphasized integration as a two-way process—one that transforms both the newcomers and the host society.
Instructors:
Ken Embley
Rosemarie Hunter
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