Turning the Tide: an overview of strategies used by traditionalists and progressives in the Netherlands to empower Dutch people of color.

Abstract

This research focuses on providing insight in the strategies used by interest groups, politicians of color and activists of color, who can be classified as progressives or traditionalists, to improve the position of Dutch people of color (DCs). Previous research has shown that the current position of DCs in the Netherlands can be seen as weak.

The interviews show that the progressives and traditionalists see the weak position of DCs as a result of a disturbance in the equilibrium. They have formulated various goals to restore this equilibrium. In addition to strategies and goals, this research, also provides insight in the way social and symbolic boundaries and the Dutch ethnic system influence the position of DCs and the strategies that are used to strengthen this position.

In total fifteen participants were interviewed of which six interest groups, five activists and four politicians. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to get an emic perspective on their opinions on the current position of DCs, the strategies they use to improve this position and the obstacles they experience.

The strategies that are distinguished in this research are progressive (e.g. demonstration & militant movement) and traditional strategies (e.g. lobby & political involvement). Traditional strategies focus on incorporation into current social, political and economic arrangements. Progressives believe that the socioeconomic needs of people of color require systemic change. To conclude this research contributes to much needed insight in to different ways that the position of DCs can be improved.