This paper concentrates on the mobilization of subgroups of Latinos within the US. Specifically, this paper compares Latinos of different nationalities that reside in Arizona and New York based on the criteria of immigration status (legal and undocumented), foreign-born or native, and generational cohort.
Based on these subgroups, this research points out the differences in political attitudes and participation among Latinos living in Arizona and in New York, and presents findings on perceptions of discrimination in a post 9/11 context, motivation for integration and pursuing American citizenship, and self-identification as a Latino and/or an American in the United States. This research explores what deters or motivates Latinos from engaging in political mobilization, explores what policies or state efforts Latinos perceive as encouraging opportunities to become politically engaged, and whether Latinos trust in democratic governance in the U.S.
Ultimately, findings vary not only between the two states, but mainly vary by locality within each state, with differences based on urban or rural residence.
