Street-level multicul turalism: Cultural integration and identity politics of African migrants in Hong Kong
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
2018
Abstract
Multiculturalism is about co-existence of diverse cultures. Current literature on multiculturalism mostly uses a top-down approach to examine how the governments adopt different policies to manage cultural diversity. However, how the migrants use their own culture including music to enhance integration is often neglected. This paper uses the experience of African migrants in Hong Kong to reveal an alternative account of multiculturalism. Based on in-depth interviews and participant observation with African drummers, this paper examines the role of African drum as a means of cultural integration. It raises the concept of “street-level multiculturalism” for analysing how African migrants experience and negotiate cultural difference on the ground. It argues that African drum music promotes intercultural contact by arousing curiosity and creating friendly atmosphere. Africans’ engagement in identity politics is based on their marginal status. Their ability to negotiate their African culture and their Hong Kong experience is a politically conscious process.
Source Publication
Cultural Diversity in China
Volume Number
3
Issue Number
1
ISSN
2353-7795
First Page
37
Last Page
57
Recommended Citation
Shum, T. (2018). Street-level multicul turalism: Cultural integration and identity politics of African migrants in Hong Kong. Cultural Diversity in China, 3 (1), 37-57. Retrieved from https://repository.vtc.edu.hk/thei-fac-gen-ed-sp/251