(DePaul University/Randall Spriggs)
Monica Reyes, an assistant professor of writing, rhetoric and discourse, received a grant from the American Association of University Women. The grant will allow her to examine in detail the U.S. asylum process. The association awarded Reyes an AAUW American Fellowship, making her one of more than 260 academics to be so recognized this academic year.
Monica Reyes is an assistant professor of writing, rhetoric and discourse.
Reyes notes she intends to use the Short-Term Research Publication Grant to develop her manuscript "Shelter Rhetorics," which examines how storytelling can affect an immigrant's chances of receiving asylum.
In applying for asylum, one must write about the circumstances surrounding their escape from persecution in their home country.
"These narratives are vital as they open opportunities for work, education and a pathway to resettlement in the United States," Reyes explains. "However, composing these stories is challenging because of cultural, linguistic and economic barriers."
Reyes describes her manuscript as offering a timely look into the oppressive rhetorical process of seeking asylum in the United States from applicants themselves.
Scott Butterworth is an editor of Newsline.