A Narrative Study of Cultural Identity Construction of African Refugee College Students in the Midwest

Habtemariam, Samuel Dermas

Publication

A Narrative Study of Cultural Identity Construction of African Refugee College Students in the Midwest

Habtemariam, Samuel Dermas

Abstract

There are few African refugee college students in the United States and little is known regarding how they construct their cultural identities. This study sought to examine the cultural identity of four African refugee college students in the Midwest. Using narrative interviews, data were gathered to answer the question: How do African refugee college students negotiate their cultural identities in the post-resettlement period? Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and interpreted with critical race theory. The findings show that African refugee students (1) preserve their African identity by keeping their values, (2) face identity confusion and (3) negotiate their cultural identity by engaging African cultural practices at home but American ones outside. Based on the findings, suggestions are discussed.