In this essay, we highlight and theorize the dynamic relationship between the structural and cultural aspects of diasporic politics and its importance for communication studies. In response to the divide between structurally determined studies of diaspora and cultural studies of celebratory resistance, this essay argues that understanding the dynamic relationship between the structural forces (for example, nation-state powers, governmental forces, global economic structures) and situated cultural practices, is key in understanding the complex articulations of diasporic identity, agency, and discourses that may echo exclusivist nationalist appeals. Throughout our theory-focused discussion, we refer to two historically specific diasporic formations-the Polish and Hawaiian diasporasas case studies to illustrate the ever-changing relationships among the structural formations and cultural practices which constitute diasporic politics. Jolanta A. Drzewiecka (Ph.D., Arizona State University) is an assistant professor of communication studies in the Edward R. Murrow School of Communication at Washington State University. Her main interests revolve around immigrant identity, intergroup relations, transnational studies, and diasporic politics. Rona Tamiko Halualani (Ph.D., Arizona State University) is an assistant professor of language, culture, ethnography, and intercultural communication in the Communication Studies Department at San Jose State University.Her main interests involve cultural studies, ethnography, culture, identity, and speaking practices, as well as Pacific Studies, Asian Pacific American Studies, globalization, diaspora, and transnational studies. We would like to express thanks to Raka Shome and the anonymous reviewers for their helpful comments.
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