Commitment to Developing Chinese Language in the United States: Immigrant Chinese Families' Experiences and Opinions

• In Event: Thursday Roundtable Session 10:50 am
  In Roundtable Session: Foregrounding the Importance of Chinese Language, Cultural Heritage, and Lived Experiences (Table 21)

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of six Chinese immigrant families in the United States, focusing on their efforts and commitment to maintaining and developing the Chinese language. It addresses the dearth of research examining Chinese language maintenance through critical and race-related perspectives. All the six families participate in the "Let's Chinese" workshop, where they actively foster their linguistic and cultural heritage. Through participant observation, interviews, and child-led multi-modal activities, the study delves into the families' engagement in language development and their understanding of their experiences. Results reveal the families' agency in language development and the workshop's positive impact on socialization and language learning. The study also highlights the importance of resisting racism and affirming Chinese identity through Chinese language development.

Author

• Xiaoyi Wei, SUNY Brockport