Negotiating Identity, Culture, and Language Within the U.S. Educational System: A Narrative Study of African Immigrant Families

• In Event: Individual Development and Curriculum Possibilities

Abstract

Looking at the current trends in globalization and immigration, where knowledge, identity and cultures seem polarized yet complex, the conceptualization of cultural identity and formation have been examined from different perspectives and fields. Over decades, studies have focused on how immigrant families navigate their heritage languages and cultures in their new environments, however, studies on African immigrant experiences is minimal. Those that have focused on Africans have been interested in their survival and assimilation and not necessarily, how they navigate heritage culture and language. Therefore, this paper will look at the experiences of African immigrant parents as they negotiate identity culture and language within the U.S educational system in hopes of providing avenues to improve educational policy and cultural learning.

Author

• Araba A. Z. Osei-Tutu, Purdue University