The dimensionality of black nationalism and African-American political participation

This article examines the dimensionality of black nationalism and its relationship to African-American political participation, focusing specifically on blacks' electoral and non-electoral involvement. An analysis of the 1993-94 National Black Politics Study confirms earlier findings that reveal two key strains of black nationalist thought, namely community and separatist nationalism. Most importantly, the analysis demonstrates that both versions drive distinct forms of political activity. Community nationalism increases electoral and non-electoral involvement among African Americans, while separatist nationalists tend to abstain from voting.