dc.description.abstract | This research uses qualitative interviews to explore the ethnic identity choice and ethnic cultural identity of children from intermarriages between the Saisiyat and the Hakka, known as “bi-ethnic individuals” in Nanzhuang. Due to factors such as family economics and the protection of Indigenous rights, and influenced by the “Indigenous Peoples Status Act”, bi-ethnic individuals may have their Indigenous status registered by using the Indigenous surname of one of their parents, who act as their representatives. Notably, children of Hakka fathers and Indigenous mothers predominantly embrace Hakka culture in their everyday life, resulting in a strong cultural affiliation with the Hakka identity. When ethnic identity recognition and cultural identity differ, it may lead to confusion about their ethnic identity, necessitating proactive measures to address identity issues. In contrast, families with an Indigenous father and a Hakka mother face fewer challenges regarding ethnic identity recognition and cultural identity because mainstream society tends to regard the father’s ethnic identity as that of the next generation. However, these individuals may encounter difficulties in learning or using their native language outside their home environment, disrupting cultural transmission. This highlights that ethnic identity is intricately linked to the construction of cultural identity, rather than being just a label.
In addition, this study brings attention to the difficulties bi-ethnic individuals encounter in preserving their cultural identity. The cultural dynamics within family, school, and living environments have a substantial impact on how their ethnic identity is acknowledged. Societal prejudices towards ethnic cultures also play an indirect role in shaping ethnic cultural identity. The issue of cultural inheritance for bi-ethnic individuals is impacted not only by ethnic policies but also by challenges such as livelihood issues and cultural loss. In examining the generational perspectives of participants, the study finds that bi-ethnic individuals, influenced by cultural loss, emphasize food and rituals as significant identity markers, replacing language as the primary mode of cultural recognition. The passage suggests that in situations where there is cultural loss, the implementation of ethnic policies and changes in community media can create new opportunities for the transmission of culture, thereby increasing the visibility of ethnic cultures.
In summary, when examining both ethnic identity recognition and cultural identity, it becomes clear that the ethnic identity of bi-ethnic individuals is continuously influenced by external factors and personal life experiences. These individuals are significantly impacted by the cultural environment they experience in their everyday life as they construct their ethnic identity. While ethnic identity recognition may not always align with cultural identity, cultural identity plays a major role in shaping ethnic identity. Therefore, in order to fully understand the process and expression of ethnic identity formation among bi-ethnic individuals, it is essential to consider various influencing factors. | en_US |