Transnational identity formation of second-generation Cameroonian youth in the United States: a perspective of a Cameroonian parent-educator

Abstract

ABSTRACT This essay explores the intricacies of transnational identity development among young Cameroonian-Americans. The paper also examines the intersectionality of socioeconomic and geographic factors influencing the transnational identity development of second-generation Cameroonian-Americans. It argues that cultural identity development among second-generation Cameroonian-Americans is influenced by both the culture of their heritage country, Cameroon, and that of their country of birth, the United States. These second-generation Cameroonian-Americans’ knowledge about their heritage culture that is acquired mostly informally plays an important role in their transnational identity development. Some of the influential aspects of their cultural identity development as examined in this essay include acculturation during Cameroon’s national days’ celebrations, Cameroonian weddings, wakes, funerals, baby showers, conventions, fundraising, monthly meetings, birthdays, and many other cultural events. In spite of their varying degree of exposure to the Cameroonian culture in the United States, second-generation Cameroonian-Americans are still more American than African because of their native-like immersion in the US mainstream culture.