Afro-Cuban Group Consciousness and Political Participation in Miami-Dade County

Abstract

For several decades, Cuban immigrants and Americans have been said to live in a "Golden Exile" in Miami and Miami-Dade County. Although many white Cubans have achieved economic and political successes in South Florida, black Cubans are disproportionately poor and politically powerless.

In this research, I asked Afro Cuban immigrants and citizens a variety of question about their racial identity, experiences with discrimination, and perceptions of African Americans and black ethnics. I wish to ascertain whether they have a sense of group consciousness with the members of their group as indicated by their common racial group identification, perception of their groups as having been disadvantaged by racism, and support for collaborative efforts among the members of their groups. Also, I want to determine their support or opposition for political coalitions with African Americans.

Keywords: Afro Latinos, group consciousness, racial solidarity, political participation