Determinants of Ethnic Group Solidarity among Mexican Americans: A Research Note

Abstract

This study combines into a single model the determinants of ethnic group solidarity among Mexican Americans identified in previous literature: ethnic factors, economic factors, and class and ethnic identities. Using the National Chicano Survey, the authors show that MexicanAmericans who display low ethnic solidarity tend to havefewer ethnic group ties, more economic resources, a weaker ethnic identity, and a weaker class identity. The results suggest the need to conceptualize ethnic solidarity as reflecting the combined effects of ethnic ties and economic resources and of ethnic and class identities with attendant implications for strengthening Mexican Americans' political and economic empowerment.