Latino Politics in America

Latinos have been the fastest growing population in the US over the last two decades. Today Latino political participation is growing dramatically. Still, Latino political power is not commensurate with its population growth, and more potential remains to be developed. This text lays out the basic facts of Latino America - who Latinos are, where they come from, where they reside - and then connects these facts to the political realities and policy contexts of immigration, citizenship, voting, education, organizations and leadership. Throughout the book, the theme of culture and community building links Latinos past with present, and points the way toward a future of shared interests and coalitions among the diverse Latino subgroups as well as with other groups vying for power in a shrinking Anglo America. Author John A. Garcia brings 30 years of experience in all aspects of politics, policy and academic theory to bear in painting a nuanced portrait of contemporary Latino political life.
An introduction to Latino politics; community building in Latino America; culture and demographics; Latino subgroups in the US; the politics of interest and culture; Latino political participation; Latinos in the electoral arena; Latino organization and leadership; immigration and Latino immigrants; education and voting rights; building political alliances; the Latino community - beyond recognition politics.