This paper attempts to shed light on the path to the identity, values, feeling of belonging, and stereotypes of the second-generation Chinese Dutch by researching and discussing their identity with...Show moreThis paper attempts to shed light on the path to the identity, values, feeling of belonging, and stereotypes of the second-generation Chinese Dutch by researching and discussing their identity with the question: How do the second-generation Chinese Dutch identify and adapt the Chinese ethnic identity within the Dutch context?”. It argues that the second-generation Chinese Dutch perceive the Chinese identity as a crucial part of them since it corresponds to their physical appearance and culture. Their Chinese identity is also fluid and changes through particular periods and situations as they belong partially to both groups and can thus behave accordingly. Moreover, Chinese language and family further determine the feeling of belonging towards the Chinese identity based on the mastery of the language and the active role that their family has in contributing to their language and cultural building. The finding of the study indicates the importance of sufficient handling of discrimination and mental support at school that should be given to the Chinese or other Asian-looking ethnic minority children during their crucial developmental stage, as all participants mentioned that they had experienced at least mild discrimination before.Show less
For a long time, the second-generation Chinese immigrants have been perceived as the “shining model” of what immigrant families should be like by many western countries, with the highest education...Show moreFor a long time, the second-generation Chinese immigrants have been perceived as the “shining model” of what immigrant families should be like by many western countries, with the highest education backgrounds and economic well-being. Do they know they are perceived as the model for ethnic minority groups in this country? Do they agree with this comment? In this paper, I am going to explore the answer to the question: how does the second generation Dutch Chinese perceive themselves in relation to the shining example myth. My thesis statement is that misunderstood the meaning of ‘integration’, this discourse creates a problematic illusion of the Chinese immigrants as being a ‘shining model’ solely based on their public stereotypes and achievements in terms of socio-economic status. The myth contributes to the ignorance of their social exclusion and to the confusion encountered during the acculturation process. It rationalises establishing an assimilationist migration policy of omitting the issues of providing assistance with regards to developing their own ethnic culture while adapting to mainstream society. It alienates the second generation Chinese-Dutch as an ethnic minority group by unrecognising their demands for further integrating to both cultures since they are regarded as already ‘perfectly integrated’ by the public.Show less
