Outside the imagined community: undocumented settlers and experiences of incorporation

Abstract

This article argues that, because they accumulate economic and social linkages to U.S. society, many undocumented Mexican and Central American immigrants intend to stay in the United States and imagine themselves to be part of the community. However, because the larger society views them as outsiders, undocumented settlers cannot be fully incorporated into the larger society. They remain marginal members of the community, continually seeking an end to their liminal status.