Conflicted Nativism

Abstract

This chapter tests a number of the propositions of the book empirically, using an original survey. The data demonstrate blacks have some superficially nativist attitudes, particularly those blacks who see themselves as prototypical Americans. These nativist attitudes are attenuated, however, by increasing levels of national pride. Moreover, blacks express a feeling of closeness with immigrants, particularly continental Africans, than native-born whites. At the same time, blacks support the idea of more border security but, in the main, have not even participated in the most minimal of political acts either in support of or against any immigration policy. This suggests immigration is not a salient issue for blacks, and to the extent they care about immigration, they are not willing to put any of their political energies toward the issue.