One or Two States? Immigration and Political Differences in New York State

Author: Emily Vasquez

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Robert Holahan

Easel: 56

Timeslot: Morning

Abstract: Rooting back to the early 1800’s, growing tension between upstate and downstate New York has left the population with their needs being unmet. NY being a large state with differing geographic, demographic, and economic factors throughout has influenced the immigration patterns within the state as well. The more populous areas are major cities across NY with more diversity, public transportation, and work opportunities to name a few. With recent growth in anti-immigrant rhetoric, the dynamic throughout the state has progressively grown into a finger-pointing argument, further delaying any progress of reform in the state. By examining these factors through data collection, such as comparing and contrasting information from census data, voting records, and literary reviews, this study will highlight what is important to different communities and how it influences the diversity throughout New York.