Contentious Politics in the Borderlands: Migrant Characteristics, Tactics, and Public Support

"Contentious Politics in the Borderlands: Migrant Characteristics, Tactics, and Public Support" by Pearce Edwards (Carnegie Mellon University) and Daniel Arnon (University of Arizona)

Abstract:

"Migration from Latin America through Mexico to the United States southern border has produced confrontations with security forces, such as migrants demonstrating against and facing possible repression from the United States Border Patrol. This paper argues that migrant actions around state borders are akin to contentious events, and that public support for migrants should vary based on what happens during the event. We expect migrants engaging in non-violent resistance to security forces will win public support. Migrant characteristics—claims or motives for migration and ethnic identity—should also affect support. In survey experiments in the United States and Mexico, we find strikingly similar results: migrant non-violent resistance reduces support for deportation and increases beliefs that migrants contribute to society. These effects are consistent across party lines and proximity to the border. Neither the nature of migrants’ claims nor migrants’ ethnic identity affect public support in the context of a contentious event."

Discussants:

Matthew Wright (University of British Columbia)

Tamar Mitts (Columbia University)

Toby Heinrich (University of South Carolina)

OPSC Coordinator:

Chelsea Estancona (University of South Carolina)