Caribbeans in New York: Political Participation; Strategic Cooperation and the Prospect for Pan-ethnic Political Mobilization in the Diaspora

Abstract

This work examines the inauspicious environment for the formation of pan-Caribbean strategic coalitions and political mobilization in the Diaspora. Caribbeans in New York City have a distinct political participation profile; characterized by lower rates of participation; but driven largely by the impact Hispanic Caribbeans have on the larger Caribbean collective that includes Afro-Caribbeans. Analysis of legislative co-operation among Caribbean elected officials and the initiatives of political entrepreneurs who seek to create distinct bases of political support by forging alternative identities reveal further that; despite initiatives by such strategic actors; Caribbeans exhibit a variety of identities; some of which may be in competition; contradiction or simply to fledgling to withstand challenges from readily articulated and enduring identities and extant political allegiances.