Summary

The political identity of Anglophone Caribbeans in New York City, and more generally in America, is hard to define. That is because American politics, just like so much else in American life, tend to divide more along race lines than along national or ethnic divisions. Because of this, the millions of Caribbean immigrants to NYC often define themselves in terms of larger groups; usually the larger black community, as evidenced by the pattern of settling in similar neighborhoods as native African-Americans. Sometimes, they are also grouped together with the Hispanic Caribbean, which still diminishes their political identity as a whole. That said, there are notable political trends that distinguish Afro-Caribbean immigrants from other minority groups in New York City. For example, here is one chart I found during the course of my research that establishes West Indian political distinctness:

This demonstrates some differences in political participation between different groups; comparing the general population with Caribbeans in general, or Hispanic/Afro Caribbeans in particular. And evidently there are differences; Afro Caribbeans seem to show less involvement.

West Indian immigrants also care about different issues than other groups, as shown by this chart:

 

Although they may not show much distinct political activity, the West Indian community in New York is still sometimes noted for the political juggernaut it can be. For that reason, Democratic city politicians always make an appearance at the West Indian Carnival parades:

In short, although the West Indian community has always been defined by its relationship with other groups (the African-American community, the Hispanic Caribbean), and they do have the potential to be a distinct political entity. Whether it happens or not, West Indians will continue to play integral parts in city politics, no matter within what group they do it.