Blurred Lines and Changing Boundaries: Exploring the Intersection Between Racial Identity and Politics in Individuals of African Descent and Optimizing Race/Ethnicity Data Collection Methods

Abstract

Since the beginning of its formation, race has worked its way into every crook and cranny of United States’ political and social structures. In the past, race has been weaponized to justify the marginalization of certain racial groups, justifying the status quo and existing racial hierarchy. This investigation aims to examine how racial identity shapes individual actions and beliefs for Black Americans, specifically when it comes to politics. Factors like a shared sense of identity (linked fate), racial and ethnic stability and importance, and perceived discrimination of individuals in one’s racial group may play a role in how one perceives and expresses their own identity and the behaviors that emerge from it.

By conducting a survey of around 2,000 participants, I was able perform several in-depth analyses, running linear regressions between racial identity and voting behaviors, observing what factors contribute to an individual’s sense of identity, and seeing how individuals respond to rhetoric regarding race in a political setting. Additionally, I tested 3 different race/ethnicity categorization questions, observing reactions and preferences across racial and ethnic groups. Throughout the analysis, several statistically significant relationships emerged. Additionally, results indicated that certain race/ethnicity data collection methods are more effective than others. The findings from this investigation can work to inform policy, revealing relationships between aspects of one’s identity, perceptions of race, and political and social behaviors. Furthermore, these results can help inform race collection methods and survey practices, prioritizing the comfort and expression of the individuals that encounter them.