The Effects of Politics on the Ethnic Identity of Immigrants of Color

Abstract

Although numerous studies suggest that ethnic identity affects politics, little data has been collected on the potential impacts of politics on ethnic identity. However, ethnic identity is constructed by social interactions. Therefore, politics characterized by racism and xenophobia will likely strengthen the ethnic identities of immigrants of color by necessitating increased co-ethnic solidarity in order to navigate around the increased marginalization they face. The impacts of politics may be particularly strong in the contemporary United States because the current public discourse around immigration is characterized by moral panic, exaggerated and biased reports of social issues. Overall, moral panic contributes to a climate of xenophobia by informing public discourse and government policies. Hostile public discourse and strict enforcement of severe immigration policies may increase experiences of perceived discrimination. High levels of perceived discrimination may foster the need for co-ethnic solidarity as a way to negotiate the obstacles discrimination causes. Perceived discrimination may also complicate one's ability to identify as American. This study explores the impact of politics on the ethnic identity of immigrants of color through interviews. Participants were asked about their thoughts on the contemporary American Political climate and its impacts on their relationship with their ethnic identity.