Philippe Bourgois
Bourgois, as author and protagonist, moves his family to El Barrio, a neighborhood in East Harlem, New York in order to research how ethnography effects the community. As an outsider, Bourgois faces an onslaught of challenges in trying to become familiar with the locals. They suspect him to be an undercover cop. Over time, however, Bourgois observes the culture of respect in the community and is able to prove he is worthy of respect also, opening a lot of previously shut doors. He makes friends with some of the people, in relationships which endure long beyond the writing of this book. In the end, Bourgois concludes that ethnicity is the primary disadvantage of the community because the institution of government as well as the social opinion of white middle-class neighbors prevent many opportunities for employment, services, and success.
Ray
Ray is a drug dealer whom Bourgois meets early after his move. He is publicly insulted by Bourgois at this initial meeting, but over time he comes to welcome and embrace the newcomer because he comes to understand that Bourgois is doing research which may help his community.
Caesar, Ray, and Primo
These other men become Bourgois' friends and advocates in the community. They respect him for seeing past the accepted social discourse about poverty and ethnic minorities. After observing Bourgois interact with other people in the community for some time, they respect him for approaching them without prejudice.
