Latino Diversity and Political Representation

Abstract

This essay explores ethnic and class differences among Latino groups in Massachusetts and how these differences affect political participation and representation. My findings are based on data from a study that included in-depth, semi-structured interviews with seventeen Latino political candidates, community representatives and campaign managers. Presented here, they raise questions about the inter-group dynamics of Latino politics and how ethnic relations, class position, and identity affect political participation and representation. As I will suggest, Latino candidates and community residents in the cities of Massachusetts are well aware of the tensions among the various Latino groups, but they, for the most part, recognize the need to put forth a pan-Latino agenda in order to mobilize their communities and to gain as many resources as possible for their communities. This pan-Latino identity is not necessarily self-serving, but benefits community members as much as the Latino elites. A certain degree ...