Survey Reveals African Immigrant Communities Closely Watching U.S. Elections, Highlight Concerns over Economic Opportunities, Immigration and U.S.-Africa Relations
Magazine, The Immigrant Experience
The U.S. Africa Institute has released the results of its comprehensive 2024 U.S. Election Survey, which gathered insights from African immigrants in the U.S. and African nationals across the continent. Conducted from July to October 2024, the survey reveals the critical concerns and hopes of these communities ahead of the U.S. presidential election.
The survey found that African immigrants are closely following the U.S. elections, with a particular focus on economic opportunities, immigration reform and racial justice. Respondents also expressed deep concerns over how the U.S. election will affect foreign relations, trade, and international aid, impacting both their lives in the U.S. and the development of African nations.
Key Findings:
- Key Concerns: The economy, immigration policies, and healthcare emerged as the top three issues for African immigrants. 62% of respondents ranked the economy as their top priority, with 44% highlighting immigration reform.
- Impact on Africa: 81% of respondents believe U.S. elections have a direct economic impact on their home countries, and 79% see significant political effects.
- Underrepresentation: A majority of respondents (72%) feel underrepresented in U.S. political discussions, particularly in debates that affect Africa and its diaspora communities.
- Party Preference: The survey revealed strong support for the Democratic Party, with 72% of respondents expressing their alignment with the party’s platform on immigration and racial justice.
- U.S.-Africa Relations: While some respondents (28%) feel the relationship between the U.S. and Africa has “somewhat improved” in recent years, 21% believe the relationship remains unchanged, and 23% feel it has worsened.
“This survey provides an important snapshot of the views and concerns of African immigrant communities and African nationals, showing that they are closely engaged with U.S. political developments,” said Dr. Tadios Belay, President and CEO of U.S. Africa Institute’. “The findings also underscore the need for greater representation of African voices in U.S. political discussions, particularly on immigration and foreign policy issues.”
U.S. Africa Institute plans to share the survey findings with local, state, and national policymakers, urging them to consider the unique perspectives of African communities when shaping policies that will affect their future. The Institute hopes these insights will inform immigration reform, economic policies, and U.S.-Africa diplomatic relations.
About U.S. Africa Institute
The U.S. Africa Institute is a leading non-partisan think tank dedicated to promoting U.S.-Africa relations and promoting academic collaboration and public diplomacy. Through research, advocacy, and public diplomacy, the Institute works to foster greater understanding between the U.S. and Africa, support higher education partnerships, and empower African diaspora communities.
For further information or to request a copy of the survey report, click here or please contact Crystal Humphrey-Hermida, Programs Manager at crystal@usafricainstitute.org or visit www.usafricainstitute.org.
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