The Tones of Lawmaking: Skin Color and Legislative Performance in Mexico

• In Event: Representation in Comparative Perspective

Abstract

Are Mexican legislators marginalized in the legislative process based on their skin color? Research demonstrates pervasive interpersonal and systemic race-based discrimination in Latin America, and recent studies in Mexico suggest this societal context translates over into parliamentary life. We examine data from the Mexican Chamber of Deputies to assess the impact that skin color has on legislative effectiveness. Our findings suggest that lighter-skinned deputies are more effective than darker-skinned ones, even when controlling for other relevant variables such as gender, education, and previous legislative experience. Our results also suggest access to leadership positions is an incumbent variable to explain why lighter-skinned deputies are more effective lawmakers. These findings demonstrate the obstacles dark-skinned legislators face in office and should inform the mechanisms of inclusion designed to redress racial underrepresentation in the region.

Authors

• Rene Rejon Piña, University of Melbourne

• Yann Kerevel, Louisiana State University

• Sergio Bárcena, Tec de Monterrey