War, Women, and Social Change
Gendered and Class Experiences of the Mexican Cristero War (1926-1929) and its AftermathGhosts of the Countryside
Join us for an eye-opening and thought-provoking lecture by Dr. Eduardo Díaz, hosted by the UAF Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) Program. Dr. Díaz will explore the gendered and class-based experiences of women during Mexico’s Cristero War (1926–1929). This religious and fratricidal conflict, which deeply impacted the social fabric of Western Mexico, reshaped identities both regionally and nationally. Dr. Díaz will delve into the significant, yet often overlooked, roles women played during this tumultuous period, shedding light on how the war influenced their lives and shaped broader societal changes. Following the lecture, a brief WGSS meeting will be held.
His talk, titled “Ghosts of the Countryside: Gendered and Class Experiences of the Mexican Cristero War (1926–1929) and its Aftermath,” will take place on Wednesday, February 5th, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:15 PM at Gruening 503H. A Zoom option will also be available for those unable to attend in person.
Dr. Eduardo Díaz is an Assistant Professor of Spanish in the Department of Global Languages and Literatures and a member of the Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies faculty at UAF. He holds a PhD from UCLA in Hispanic Languages and Literatures with a specialization in Mexican literary and cultural production.
His upcoming book, Metamorfosis mexicana: 200 años de cambios literarios y culturales, will be released in late 2025. A collaborative project with El Colegio de Jalisco (Jalisco, Mexico), the book explores 200 years of cultural change in Mexico.
Dr. Díaz’s lecture offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of the intersection of gender, class, and religion during a critical period in Mexican history. Whether you are a student of history, literature, or gender studies, or simply interested in the lasting effects of war on society, this talk will provide valuable insights into the Cristero War’s profound impact on Mexican identity.
The UAF WGSS Program has a rich history of fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and engagement around issues related to gender, sexuality, and social justice. By hosting monthly events like this, the program provides a platform for students, faculty, and the broader community to learn from experts, share ideas, and contribute to meaningful conversations.