Identity & belonging: voices in Texas Latine political salience
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Abstract
This thesis explores the relationship between cultural and political identities among Latine voters in Texas, examining the degrees to which these dual identities may influence issue salience. Rooted in existentialist thought and drawing from both historical and contemporary life perspectives, this research offers a comprehensive analysis of what it means to be Latine in Texas, examining cultural identity as both a form of expression and a mode of political engagement. I conducted a two-part survey among Texas' Latine voters offered in English and Spanish. The first part collected demographic data and inquired respondents' affinity to their Latine identity and its influence on their politics. The second part, guided by UnidosUS findings, asked respondents to prioritize top issues personally and for their community. Respondents were also given free response opportunities to elaborate on their responses.Results reveal varying degrees of affinity to Latine identity among respondents and its significant influence on their political beliefs and priorities. The findings highlight that while some issues like immigration and healthcare are consistently seen as priorities, the degree of their importance varies greatly among individuals, often influenced by personal experiences and communal ties. My findings confront homogenous perceptions of Latine voters, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and understanding the diversity within this demographic.
Moreover, my thesis contributes to political science by providing an in-depth analysis of factors influencing the political salience of Latine voters in Texas, emphasizing the importance of both personal and communal narratives.
As a first-generation Latine, this research fostered personal and professional growth, deepening my understanding of my own relationship to my identity and cultural community.
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2024