Explorations in Ethnic Studies
Orginal Publication Date
1994
Journal Title
Explorations in Ethnic Studies
Volume
17
Issue
ees/vol17/iss1
First Page
[63]
Last Page
78
Abstract
Whereas the economic mobility observed among Asian Americans is often attributed to their cultural values, this article demonstrates the importance of state aid to the economic mobility of a community of Southeast Asian refugees living in California. Using data from a lengthy ethnographic study of rural Laotian refugees, the content and administration of social welfare programs offered political refugees is contrasted with the social policies extended toward other poor communities. As variations in social policies can constrain or facilitate economic mobility, the concrete impact of welfare state policies on different ethnic communities is a topic in need of further exploration.
Rights
Copyright, ©EES, The National Association for Ethnic Studies, 1994