Transnational Identity
What might be called hybrid identities arise from international migration. This is increasingly a global phenomenon, but in the Americas and other places with extensive histories of migration, this form of identity has deep roots. People may define themselves by the place of origin of their ancestors, identifying perhaps as Irish Americans or Japanese Brazilians. An identity with other nations beyond one's country of residence is called transnational identity (Airriess and Miyares 2007).
In the US for example, feelings of ethnic identity usually coexist without threatening national identity. More recent immigrants are generally more likely to retain stronger contact with their places of origin through remittances and still-active migration chains (Airriess and Miyares 2007). Among immigrant groups that have been in the US for generations, transnational identity becomes more of an occasional nostalgic gesture. It is kept alive by participation in holiday rituals or in commemorations dedicated to honouring the contributions of a particular immigrant group to American history and culture (Hawkins 2007).
Pause and Reflect: How have your formal education experiences, informal activities (e.g., clubs, youth groups), or participation in cultural or commemorations of rituals contributed to your sense of national or transnational identity?
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Date last modified: October 8, 2009.
NSF Project (AAG,Texas State, Northern Colorado)