Education in Latin America and the Caribbean

A Theoretical Discussion of Citizenship, Democracy and Multiculturalism

Abstract

The paper discusses the development of education in Latin America and the Caribbean and its impact on indigenous and other minorities. Theories of citizenships, nationalism, democracy and multi-culturalism are used to frame the critique of current educational practices in the region's multi-ethnic capitalistic states. The author argues that the concept of citizenship has been overly exclusionary, often addressing the needs and identities of powerful groups, while marginalizing those of immigrant and indigenous minorities. The author further contends that the tensions between democracy and multi- cultural citizenship should be recognized and addressed in public education. A new and dynamic concept of democratic citizenship should be constructed through education, taking into serious consideration the aspirations, identities, histories and rights of native peoples and other minorities.