Settlement Orientations and Ethnic Identifications of the Chinese Cuban Diaspora: The Case of the English Herrera Family 

My research explores the intersection of migration, identity, and cultural integration within the Chinese Cuban community through the Eng Herrera family’s three-generation narrative. Using sojourner theory as a lens, I trace the evolution from psychological sojourning to transnational identities and eventual integration into Cuban society. The journey begins with Guillermo Eng, a sojourner who upheld strong ties to China while raising a family in Cuba. His son, Pedro Eng Herrera, embodies a transnational identity, balancing Cuban nationalism with a profound connection to his Chinese heritage. Havana’s Chinatown emerges as both a cultural haven and a space shaped by poverty and racial stereotyping, illustrating the complex realities of diasporic life. In recent years, Chinatown’s revitalization has redefined Chinese Cuban identity, blending heritage preservation with opportunities in cultural tourism. This evolution reflects broader questions about what it means to belong and how diasporic identities adapt over time.

This research has deepened my understanding of the fluidity of identity in diasporic communities. It highlights the critical role of cultural education and dialogue in fostering integration while honoring heritage. The active contributions of Chinese Cubans, from independence struggles to the Cuban Revolution, underscore the immense value immigrant communities bring to their host nations. By incorporating oral histories, my work also emphasizes the human dimension of migration, bringing personal narratives into conversation with theoretical frameworks. This approach not only enriches the historical record but also stresses the importance of including diverse voices in postcolonial histories. Through this, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive, nuanced understanding of migration and identity in a globalized world.

My passion for this research is deeply rooted in my own experiences as a Chinese Canadian immigrant. Growing up between cultures, I developed a fascination with how diasporic communities navigate questions of identity, belonging, and cultural preservation. While much has been written about large Chinese diasporas in North America, I was drawn to the less-known histories of Chinese communities in other parts of the world, leading me to the Chinese Cuban diaspora.

Learning about how Chinese Cubans balanced their ties to China while contributing to Cuban society resonated with my own journey of understanding what it means to belong to multiple worlds. This research allows me to explore not only the stories of others but also reflect on the shared threads of resilience, adaptation, and the redefinition of identity that connect diasporic communities across time and space.

Being a Laidlaw Scholar means an incredible opportunity to deepen my historical research while connecting with a diverse community of scholars from all disciplines, especially in a landscape where funding opportunities for the humanities are more few and far between. What excites me most about the Laidlaw program is how it connects research with real-world impact. It’s not just about academic knowledge but about using what we learn to make a difference. This approach drives me to ensure my research is relevant beyond the classroom, engaging with communities and addressing broader social issues. I’m especially looking forward to the second summer of Leadership-in-Action. It’s an exciting chance to step away from the computer and academic texts and put theory into practice. This hands-on experience will help me develop leadership skills in a real-world setting, furthering my growth both as a scholar and as a leader.

The leaders who inspire me are those who are deeply committed to their communities, lead by example, and possess a clear, effective vision. One leader who particularly stands out to me is Nellie Wong, a Chinese American poet and activist. Her work focuses on preserving the cultural heritage of Chinese immigrants and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, especially Asian Americans. Through her poetry and activism, Wong amplifies the voices of immigrant communities, ensuring their histories and experiences are heard and valued. Her leadership demonstrates the powerful intersection of cultural preservation and social justice, showing how art can be a tool for empowerment and social change. Wong’s dedication to elevating underrepresented voices is a model for how leaders can make a lasting impact on both cultural and social issues.

In the future I am striving to create, I envision a society where social justice and equity are at the core of daily life. It’s a world where the histories and experiences of marginalized communities are fully recognized, respected, and celebrated. People actively learn from the past, using this knowledge to shape a more inclusive and just future. Education plays a critical role, not just in teaching history but in fostering empathy, understanding, and respect across diverse backgrounds. In this future, communities are more connected and inclusive, where individuals from all walks of life have the opportunity to thrive and there is a collective commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind. This vision is one where empathy, justice, and equality guide the way forward.

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