​Roma's film location

Welcome to my website! 
​My name is Daniela, I am a first-generation Mexican PhD candidate specializing in Hispanic Linguistics at the University of Florida.

My research focuses on investigating the linguistic outcomes of Returnee heritage speakers (RHS) specifically Mexican-American migrants deported/returned to Mexico after residing in the United States for extensive periods of time, crucial for their linguistic acquisition system. The bulk of my work resides in the area of Spanish heritage speaker’s bilingualism and how their experiences throughout life have shaped their linguistic instantiations.

I am interested at the intersection between syntax, environmental change and socio-affective variables to explain individual differences among bilingual speakers. I also work on the examination of monoglossic, racial and power ideologies that affect the maintenance of Spanish in the United States and how these ideologies also affect Spanish returnee heritage speakers language. I use Personal Network Analysis (PNA) to explore how the language of these individuals changes (or not) as a result of dynamic social interactions and varying language exposure. This analytical approach seeks to capture the impact of daily interactions and environmental factors on language structures. 

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MY INTERESTS
​
​Stigmatized Bilingualism
Acquisition, Maintenance, Loss and Reactivation of Syntax

Heritage Speakers' Education & Pedagogy 

​Linguistic Discrimination & Linguistic Ideologies

​My role involves not only scholarly work but also activism through art, children's workshops, films, creative writing, social media, and vocal advocacy on issues like linguistic discrimination, bilingualism, migration, and various forms of dissent. Outside teaching and research, I have a deep interest in feminism, psychoanalysis, tango music, ballet, salsa dancing, and exploring different cultures, cuisines, and music around the world.