Toward an improved understanding of immigrant adaptation and transnational engagement: the case of Cuban Émigrés in the United States

Abstract

The article compares the explanatory power of assimilationist and transnational frameworks with a historically informed generation (historical cohort) thesis that addresses the long-term cross-border impact of premigration experiences on immigrant new country adaptation. It tests the utility of the thesis with respect to immigrant remittance-sending among different waves of Cuban émigrés to the United States, who had different homeland experiences before uprooting. Regression analysis is used to assess the relative import of premigration experiences and factors immigration studies have found to be associated with assimilation and transnationalism. The article concludes with a discussion of the applicability of the historical cohort thesis for improved understanding of other immigrant group adaptation and homeland engagement.

Cuban American College Students’ Perceptions Surrounding Their Language and Cultural Identity

“…Cubans immigrated to the United States for a multitude of reasons ranging from family reunification to enhanced employment and educational opportunities. However, as Vang and Eckstein (2015) described, the Cubans within the waves of immigration had vast differences in their lived experiences in Cuba, which may have an impact of their perceptions of Cuba and their assimilation of the English language and American culture. Furthermore, Cubans may feel distrust and resentment toward the Cuban government.…”

“…Participants’ diverse views of visiting Cuba could be based on what Vang and Eckstein (2015) described as their experience of “different Cubas,” which is grounded in the time frame of when they or their family left Cuba. Furthermore, Segev, Shoham, and Gavish (2016) suggested that many immigrants may feel torn between maintaining their heritage and embracing their new country.…”