Transnational Community and Its Ethnic Consequences

Abstract

This article examines the consequences of transnational community formation for immigrants' communities and ethnic identity. Focusing on a culturally, nationally, and racially mixed group of Japanese Peruvians who are dispersed across Peru, Japan, and the United States, the author examines how their communities and ethnic identity are transformed as a consequence of their migrations and transnational ties. During ethnographic fieldwork in their communities, the author found that Japanese Peruvians across the Pacific create their own ethnic identity as Nikkei, distinct from others, by exploiting their international ties and resources. She argues, therefore, that migrants' transnational ties can accentuate their group boundaries both within the sending and receiving countries, particularly when migrants perceive that there are benefits. Hence, the process of transnational community formation can hinder migrants' assimilation in nations.