Barbara Ellen Smith
Research Panel #1

Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies and Director of Women's Studies

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Latino immigrants now work in some of the same industries and occupations as African American workers in the U.S. South. This paper explores their workplace interactions in Memphis, Tennessee, and concludes that the common economic defenses of immigrants (e.g., "They take jobs that nobody else wants") are misplaced; a focus on employer interests and behaviors would better serve a multi-racial/ethnic labor movement.