Post-Migration and Embracing Identity Multiplicity

Abstract

Migration is a phenomenon that requires individuals to shift their identity to incorporate new cultures, creating a split between the individual's ethnic identity and national identity. Acculturation to a new environment requires migrants to solidify a new identity, often adopting a combination of their past lives and their new lives. In the context of Social Identity theory by Henri Tajfel, each migrant has the ability to choose how they categorize themselves and create groups. The book American Street by Ibi Zoboi contextualizes the migrant experience to America as a struggle to find their place and acceptance in a community. Using Social Identity Theory, this paper aims to prove that the protagonist, Fabiola Toussaint, is able to find peace as a Haitian-American citizen, incorporating both of her homes into her identity. By embracing her multiple identities, Fabiola unites her family from both worlds and learns to accept herself.