Exploring Generation 1.5 Afghan Experiences of Homemaking and (Be)longing

Abstract

The literature on migration has typically described those who have migrated out of necessity as being in some form of exile, longing to return to their homeland. Traditionally, it has been applied to first-generation immigrants who strongly identify with their homeland and feel like an “outsider” in their country of settlement. However, there has been little attention paid to generation 1.5 immigrants, those who migrated during childhood or early adolescence. This thesis seeks to explore the settlement experiences of 10 generation 1.5 Afghans. I argue these individuals engage in homemaking strategies as a way to negotiate their identity and belonging in Canada, while also challenging the boundaries of belonging in order to gain full citizenship.