Recent Mexican Migration in the Rural Delmarva Peninsula: Human Rights Versus Citizenship Rights in a Local Context

Abstract

Examines the dramatic increase in Mexican & other Latino immigrant residents that occurred in the rural Delmarva Peninsula region of Maryland & Virginia during the 1990's. The impact of local practices on immigrant rights is considered from both a human rights & a citizen theory perspective. Data were obtained from fieldwork conducted in 2000-02 that consisted of site observations & interviews with immigrants, social service providers, & local activists. Most of the immigrant respondents were poor, young, working-class Mexicans who were interested in permanent rather than temporary, seasonal work. Special attention is given to the immigrant's experiences with labor unions, social services, housing providers, & the political establishment. Even though many of the newcomers lack legal status, they have made significant gains, & local actors have often responded constructively to their presence. The isolated nature of the peninsula & the small size of the communities have led to more personal contact between residents & the immigrants whose rights have been expanded in such areas as labor, education, & legal assistance. Tables, References. J. Lindroth