Newswise — The success of Monday's (May 1) national economic boycott by undocumented workers and their supporters is about more than the proposed legislation the movement opposes, says a Purdue University social movements expert.
"It is easy to get caught up in the current issue, but the success of this movement will be proven in the years to come," says Rachel Einwohner, an associate professor of sociology. "What does this mean for future issues affecting immigrants and undocumented workers? Will these protesters stay mobilized and pursue other political changes?"
Hundreds of thousands of activists, primarily undocumented workers and their supporters, are expected to participate in Monday's "Day Without An Immigrant" economic boycott of work and school. The boycott's roots can be traced to April 10, when hundreds of thousands of people around the United States protested against proposed legislation that would make illegal immigrants subject to felony charges.
A protest's success can be measured in different ways, Einwohner says. Even if the current legislation is passed, that does not mean the protesters have ultimately failed. Sometimes the ability to mobilize and communicate has long-term benefits that outweigh any immediate desired policy outcome, she says.
"This is a group of individuals that could be powerful if it remains mobilized," Einwohner says. "Where will its members go from here?"
She notes that during the civil rights movement many of the leaders continued to be active or branched out into other issues.
"Because this group has been successful in organizing these national protests, policy-makers and leaders are more likely to pay attention to their needs and wants in the future," she says.
Einwohner also says a nonviolent strategy can add to the effectiveness of a protest. Violence by protesters can quickly delegitimize a movement. If violence is used against peaceful protesters by law enforcement, however, it can lead to sympathy and add strength to a movement, she says.
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