As members of the fastest-growing demographic group in America, Latinos are increasingly represented in the professional class, but they continue to face significant racism. Everyday Injustice introduces readers to the challenges facing Latino professionals today. Examining the experiences of many of the most privileged members of the largest racial and ethnic community in the United States, Maria Chávez provides important insights into the challenges facing racialized groups, particularly Latinos, in the United States. Her study looks at Latino lawyers in depth, weaving powerful personal stories and interview excerpts with a broader analysis of survey research and focus groups. The book examines racial framing in America, the role of language and culture among Latino professionals, the role of Latinos in the workplace, their level of civic participation, and the important role that education plays in improving their experiences. One chapter discusses the unique challenges that Latinas face in the workplace as both women and people of color. The findings outlined in Everyday Injustice suggest that despite considerable success in overcoming educational, economic, and class barriers, Latino professionals still experience marginalization. A powerful illustration of racism and inequality in America.

"Examining the experiences of many of the most privileged members of the largest racial and ethnic community in the United States, author Maria Chávez provides important insights into the challenges facing ‘racialized’ groups, particularly Latinos, in the United States. Her study looks at Latino lawyers in depth, weaving powerful personal stories and interviews excerpts with a broader analysis of survey research and focus groups." - Foreword Reviews

"Lawyers rank among the most respected and well-compensated professionals in the US. If the Latinos and Latinas among them experience discrimination, what does that say about the US and about people even less privileged? Political scientist Chávez (Pacific Lutheran Univ.) addresses these and related questions, skillfully employing extensive and often evocative interviews plus carefully designed surveys. Chávez argues that "systemic racism" is "normal," unseen by mainstream Americans but with observable consequences even for this relatively elite population she studies. Comparing data across ethnicity and gender, she reinforces understandings about how minority men and especially women have to work harder to succeed in school and on the job, and of their lower glass ceilings. Her most original findings highlight the costs of living in two cultures--a mainstream-dominated profession and "communities of origin." Gendered expectations within their home communities exacerbate Latinas' difficulties in reconciling conflicting demands. Chávez also demonstrates that Latino/Latina professionals engage extensively in civic organizations in both spheres, contributing to both and bridging the gaps between them. Recognizing the effects of class on all American populations could have strengthened this already excellent analysis. Summing Up: Recommended. All libraries, all readership levels. " - CHOICE

"Exploring in great detail the professional lives of Latino lawyers, including their discriminatory experiences, Everyday Injustice is especially important and timely and provides a rich and detailed context against which the wisdom of affirmative action policies as well as other diversity measures may be evaluated on an informed basis." - Jotwell