The Political Membership research group brings together an interdisciplinary team of scholars dedicated to exploring how and when immigrant “others” become recognized as members of the political community.
Research Areas
Using a diverse array of methodologies, they examine the identities, attitudes, claims-making processes, and political behaviors that shape this journey. Their research seeks to uncover the circumstances and factors that influence political inclusion and belonging.
- When do migrants become members of the polities where they live?
- How important are legal categories of citizenship or “legal” residence for migrants’ ability to have political voice or for how nonimmigrant citizens view foreign-born others?
- What shapes public opinion on immigrants and refugees?
- Can social movement activism or involvement in electoral politics change policy or change conceptions of membership?
Coordinators
The research group is co-coordinated by Dr. Matthew Wright, Associate Professor of Political Science and Dr. Irene Bloemraad, CMS Co-Director and Professor of Political Science and Sociology.
Group Members
The Political Membership research group brings together scholars from diverse fields and is open to all CMS affiliates.
- Dr. Irene Bloemraad, CMS Co-Director and Professor of Political Science and Sociology
- Dr. Richard Johnston, Professor Emeritus, Political Science
- Dr. Xiaojun Li, Associate Professor, Political Science
- Nicholas Phin, Doctoral Candidate, Political Science
- Abena Somiah, Graduate Sudent, Geography
- Robert Straughan, PhD Student, Political Science
- Dr. Matthew Wright, Associate Professor, Political Science
- Dr. Yang-Yang Zhou, Assistant Professor, Political Science
Get in touch
Connect with CMS if you have questions about the research group or are interested in joining.