Managing the Stigma of “Illegality”: Boundary work among Mexican migrants and Puerto Ricans

• In Event: 468 - Regular Session. Racialization of Latinos/as

Abstract

Building on research on symbolic boundaries, this paper explores how the stigma of “illegality” is managed by racialized migrants in low-wage work. To do so, this study relies on in-depth interviews with Mexican migrants and Puerto Ricans to examine the invisible work of making and managing social and ethnic distinctions. Interviewees vary in terms of gender, legal status (i.e. undocumented migrants, legal-permanent residents, and citizens), length of time in the United States, and class status. This research shows that migrants raise feelings of “we-ness” along ethnic lines in order to magnify “work ethic” as a group characteristic and maintain dignity. More specifically, the paper shows that the concept of “work ethic” is assembled by Mexican undocumented men and women in their quest to safe-guard dignity in the workplace. And equally as important, this paper shows that the meaning of a Mexican “work ethic,” often defined in relation to Puerto Rican co-workers who are seen as ‘undisciplined’ workers, has implications for conflict and civility at work.

Author

• Jacqueline Olvera, Adelphi University