Full Description
There is a long history of immigration from Eastern Europe to the United States that began in the 1880s. Since that time, significant diaspora communities have developed in the United States. The members of these groups have developed businesses, participated in their local communities, attended colleges and universities, and shared their culture. Even with such active participation and growth in American life, little is known about the individual community members. Often these communities are forgotten within the fabric of American life. Navigating Education as a Forgotten Immigrant tells the stories of these community members.
Each chapter shares the story of a member of the Eastern European community living in the United States. Some stories are from the perspective of a first-generation immigrant, while others are from second-generation immigrants. Their stories highlight their commitment to life in America, the challenges they face, their evolution of identity, and what it means to live in two worlds simultaneously.
Contents
Section One: First-Generation Immigrants
Introduction: Who Are First-Generation Immigrants?
Chapter One: Anna's Revolutionary Family: "A Collection of Truths"
Chapter Two: Rafal's Hybrid Identity: "Different is Great"
Chapter Three: Jacek's Teen Spirit: "I Didn't Know I Was Going to America"
Chapter Four: Dana's American Dream: "It's about the Romanian Heart"
Chapter Five: Tymofii's New Home: "I Couldn't Go Back"
First-Generation Immigrants: Central Themes
Section Two: Second-Generation Immigrants
Introduction: Who Are Second-Generation Immigrants?
Chapter Six: Lara's Family History: "Standing on the Shoulders of Our Parents"
Chapter Seven: Julie's Family Connections: "That's Not a Loss, That's a Gain"
Chapter Eight: Pavlo's Journey Home: "Family is a Very Focal Point"
Chapter Nine: Julianna's Multiple Worlds: "It's about Genuine Connection"
Chapter Ten: Natalie the Leader: "I Didn't Want to Lose My Polish Language"
Second Generation Immigrants: Central Themes
Conclusion: What Do First and Second-Generation Immigrants Have in Common?
