By Lear Matthews
(A version of this article was first published in the March, 2016 edition of the Guyana Cultural Association Magazine)
Participants in Guyana’s Golden Jubilee Symposium Series will explore four interrelated questions: Who are we? What has been our journey? What can we become? How can we get there? In this article, the writer interrogates the first question: “Who are we”? specifically as it relates to the Diaspora (i.e. Guyanese immigrants). My goal is to begin the conversation.
Diaspora Identity: How is it shaped?
The experience of the immigrant community can be both gratifying and challenging, characterized by opportunities and risks. Adaptation and identity are shaped by trans-cultural and psychological factors, including the extent of social/emotional place attachment to country of origin. Bi-national labels such as Caribbean-American, a function of sustained links to the homeland, may reflect ethnic grounding and national pride. In this regard, cultural practices/customs among immigrants demonstrate expressed identification with the home country.
‘Guyanese-American’ may also be less symbolic than significantly representing the essence of a transnational existence, rooted in as much the country of origin as in the adopted country. Most Guyanese in the Diaspora, regardless of ethnicity or self-identification are defined by the host society’s subculture niches as ‘people of color’ or ‘black’ (e.g. in North America). They are seen as part of a ‘minority group’ because of physical appearance or ‘otherness’ which sets the parameters of class/ethnic categories.
Who we are perceived to be or the labels assigned to us, is informed by a history of global transmigration and geo-politics. Ultimately, pre-migratory socialization coupled with experience as transnationals is of consequence. Notwithstanding their significant human capital contributions, immigrants are viewed as foreigners, displaced persons, aliens, transnationals, expatriates, even “traitors” (for abandoning country of origin). Does how we are perceived by others matter? To what extent does the place we call ‘home’ define what/who we are? How well does a Guyanese/Caribbean culture translate into aspects of ‘American’ or ‘Canadian’ or ‘British’ culture? Are we ever complicit in denying our true heritage? Such questions may be at the core of a collective identity, although for some, personal/professional achievement, not heritage, is at the center of one’s identity.
We often forget that Guyanese immigrants comprise more than the major ethnic groups, namely, Guyanese of East Indian ancestry and those of African ancestry. There are also Guyanese-born Chinese, Portuguese and Amerindians in the Diaspora. They too have narratives about the immigrant experience, which redefine who they are and what they have become.
In search of a collective consciousness: “Ahwhee Own”:
As we seek to answer the question: “who are we?” in the Diaspora, remember ethnicity and social class affect self-concept. In addition, racial politics in the home country planted the seeds of ethnic divide. The resulting cultural baggage and its political ramifications penetrate virtually every aspect of Guyanese life, which includes group relations at home and abroad. Consequently, the capacity to assess needs, form alliances and collectively commit to meaningful change has been compromised.
Furthermore, relations between the Diaspora and homeland seem in a state of tension, particularly with regard to the role, ambivalence and expectations of “comebackees”. Along with perceived “ethnic imbalance” at planned Diaspora events, these tensions need careful unpacking and measured response. A collective consciousness (“ahwhee own”) influenced less by politics than openness to diverse ideas from all stakeholders is essential. This may require a re-socializing and re-culturing of our views and beliefs about what it means to be Guyanese.
Diaspora Engagement: Helping to chart our destiny
We must have a vision to successfully chart our destiny. Commitment to national unity and the legacy we leave our children should frame who we are. Such a commitment is symbolically expressed at ceremonial events when the pledge: “One People, One Nation, One Destiny” is recited to reaffirm national harmony. The hope is that this is a genuine reflection of who we thrive to be, regardless of ethnicity, color or creed.
We need to get past the reluctance to talk honestly about racial/ethnic issues, reflect on our journey and strengthen group relations. With thousands returning for this unprecedented milestone, Diaspora engagement could be pivotal in launching various development initiatives. We will hopefully emerge with a better understanding of who we are, making the nation a place where people embrace ‘oneness’ regardless of country of residence or political affiliation. The goal is to overcome psychological barriers, while harnessing ideas, resources and skills across nation states. This could help re-define the identity, values and destiny of the nation.
There is ample evidence of identification with, and commitment to homeland development, but Guyanese need to loosen the bonds of mistrust among ethnic groups, homeland and the Diaspora. This will hopefully increase inclusiveness in the new political climate. There are opportunities for this such as the government’s proposed plans to re-structure the educational system, inviting assistance from the Diaspora. The recently announced Guyana government/IOM collaborative “Go See Visit 2016” entrepreneur project is another example of such efforts.
Beyond the 50th: What we can become?
Thoughts expressed above apply mostly to first-generation immigrants and their children, who may define themselves as Guyanese –American. For the third-generation, ethnicity, and the country of their grandparents’ birth may no longer be dominant in defining “Who am I?” They tend to assimilate into the mainstream society, accepting it as “home” and identifying with it. However, as we reaffirm our heritage and political independence at 50 years, assessing the realities of a Diaspora identity is essential. Self-knowledge, involvement of our youth, and vested partnership with the homeland could help construct what we can become, as we engage across cultures and reconcile a new identity.
