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The West Indian Americans introduces students and other interested readers to the diversity and cultural individuality of a growing segment of the American immigrant community. After an introductory chapter that describes the history and people of Jamaica and the other English-speaking Caribbean nations, their migration to the United States and patterns of adjustment and adaptation are discussed. Next, the West Indian cultural traditions, transferred to this country especially the churches, literature, music, and festivals, are evoked. Another chapter covers family networks, return migration, and remittances to those members left behind in the West Indies. Final chapters examine the new challenges for the West Indian Americans, such as identity issues, education and job prospects, and gang and drug problems, and the contributions of West Indian immigrants.
List of contents
Series Foreword
Introduction
History of Jamaica and the English-speaking Caribbean
Patterns of Migration to the United States in the 20th Century
Patterns of Adjustment and Adaptation
West Indian Cultural Traditions: Continuity and Change
Family Networks
The New Challenges: The Second Generation of English-speaking Caribbean Immigrants
Conclusion
Appendix I: Migration Statistics
Appendix II: Noted English-speaking Caribbean Americans
Selected Bibliography
Index
About the author
HOLGER HENKE is a Research Fellow at the Caribbean Research Center at Medgar Evers College (CUNY). He is also the Assistant Editor of
Wadabagei. A Journal of the Caribbean and Its Diaspora.
