Mexican Americans and the Politics of Diversity: ¡Querer Es Poder!

I'm not aware of many scholarly works that are accessible for students and the general public. Mexican Americans and the Politics of Diversity synthesizes major issues such as voting rights, bilingual education and immigration. The interviews presented with community leaders capture a snapshot of voices from individuals who are concerned about political forces. Magana does a great job of connecting narratives and federal policies by presenting some concrete policy objectives. The glossary at the end is also a handy resource. I strongly recommend this as a must read for individuals who are not only concerned with Mexican American historical experiences but those who have a vested interest in American politics.

This book is a no-brainer. Given that Mexican Americans are now the nation's fastest growing minority and increasingly Mexican American votes can mean the difference between winning and losing elections in growing numbers of local, state, and national elections, not to mention the never ending controversy over immigration, this book is a must read for anyone remotely interested in Mexican American's political participation and activism. Demographic, cultural, and historical determinants are all discussed including some interesting predictions on the political future of such a crucial group in American society.