"Me Llamo Luchadora Social": Trans Latina Immigrants as Nepantleras Generating Change in the Southern United States.

This article focuses on the lived experiences of trans Latina immigrants as agents of social change in the southern United States, exploring how they resist oppression and build community despite intersecting challenges of transphobia, xenophobia, and systemic discrimination. Using interpretive phenomenology informed by Chicana feminisms and Gloria Anzaldúa's concepts of nepantla (in-between spaces) and nepantleras (those who navigate these spaces to foster transformation), the study identifies three main themes: the burden of discrimination and unmet needs; the role of trans Latinas as luchadoras sociales (social fighters/activists) generating change at micro, mezzo, and macro levels; and the strength found in mutual care and support within their communities. The participants' activism is deeply connected to their identities and embodied experiences, emphasizing collective empowerment and intergenerational mentorship. The study concludes with recommendations for social work research, practice, and education to adopt strengths-based, community-informed approaches that center the voices and leadership of trans Latina immigrants.