Queered approach for Latinx LGBTQ+ culturally responsive evaluation practice

Abstract

Evaluation with Latinx LGBTQ+ communities calls for a culturally responsive and equity‐based approach that appreciates the rich diversity of experiences within the grouping “Latinx LGBTQ+.” Recent advancements in Latino Critical Race Theory (LatCrit) in Evaluation and LGBTQ+ Evaluation, as well as rich historical genealogies of feminisms of color within Queer Theory offer valuable insights for evaluators working with Latinx LGBTQ+ communities. This article encourages embracing a “queered” approach to LatCrit, which meaningfully delves into the complexities of these experiences and attunes itself to the experiences and nuances of trauma. A Queered LatCrit emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and empowering context that acknowledges historical trauma and oppression, while simultaneously refusing deficit‐based frames and engaging the strengths and assets of in‐betweenness. Touching on historical, cultural, and methodological considerations, we argue for evaluations that recognize the unique challenges faced by Latinx LGBTQ+ communities while calling for evaluation practices rooted in culturally responsive, empowerment, and transformative traditions.