Messengers of justice: social network analysis of public relations support for migrants

Abstract

This article applies Social Network Analysis (SNA) to illuminate the task forces created by US-based activists undertaking public relations on behalf of migrant caravan participants that travel from Honduras through Mexico toward the US. Four functional roles–influencers, messengers, support groups, and founding members–are identified and described in detail. When taking into account the characteristics of the individuals involved, these roles facilitate “bridge-actions”: the mobilization of support across distinct political structures such as Native American tribal governments, international human rights venues, and US political parties. The result is a flexible public relations venture that has ability to influence diverse audiences–and extend beyond this particular mobilization effort. This has been most useful in the current American debate concerning restrictive US immigration policies and border security measures.