Belonging in the Search for Identity

Abstract

In this column, I explore the relationships between identity work and the sense of belonging. I argue that the absence of critical conversations such as race may prompt students to fit in but does not warrant a sense of belonging. Using a research study on Asian immigrant students as a reference point, I propose that we consider students’ engagements with music beyond the classroom as potential sites for critical analysis of elements that play into their realities and frame how they see and understand the world.