Chapter 14 - Transnational Communities and the Formation of Alternative Sociopolitical Otherness

Summary

Introduction

In forestalling existing and potential suffering of regressive otherness in the host society, migrant and refugee parent generations often pursue dualistic linear transnational adaptations. They create sociocultural and political spaces under conditions of simultaneous linkages with countries of origin while simultaneously adapting to host societies. Parent generation also combines such endeavors with the task of caring for families. Struggling with such demanding challenges, the parent generations foster and raise the second and third generations—with the expectation of continuity. The youth, however, pursue favorable strategies and connections. While, for instance, witnessing the parent generation in overcoming otherness by sustaining host-homeland community associations, often resting on vanguard charismatic community members with traditional capabilities, the younger generation seeks alternative multi-linear and complex non-traditional adaptations. Though partially adapting aspects of the parent generation's social and cultural upbringing, the youth combine with educational and other sociocultural socialization impulses, mainly from the mainstream society. This makes the youth prefer alternative situational dynamic hybridity. They position themselves as engaging in multiple transformative and transferable fields- often aiming beyond host–homeland connections and community formations. Despite such aspirations, even with the younger generations, challenges regarding otherness persist. Though emerging creative platforms transitionally empower the youth, the shift creates gaps between the youth and parent generations.

Transnational communities generate multiple transformative processes enabling communities to confront prevailing stigma and exclusive otherness. Through diverse activities, members succeed in forming alternative social and political platforms thereby promoting cooperation and solidarities within the community as well as in relation to associated civic networks. Internally, communities remain diverse and heterogeneous resulting in disagreements on vision, ideas, and practical activities and priorities. Externally, communities confront networks and constituents opposing the presence of inhabitants with migrant and refugee backgrounds.

The younger generations differ both from the parent generations and from the wider society. With access to specific community platforms as well as engaging in diverse interactions with the wider society, younger generations navigate through conventions, traditions, and conflicting priorities. In maintaining a respectful position in society, the youth, therefore, assemble resources balancing the past with the present while remaining open for potentialities.