S-CAR Dissertation Defense: Claudine Kuradusenge- Fight Against Labels, Fight For Self -

Fight against Labels, Fight for Self: The Exploration of Social Categorization on Diaspora Political Participation
Friday, March 30, 2018, 10am - 12pm
Vernon Smith Hall 5183 - SCAR Conference Room
Arlington Campus, George Mason University
Committee members:
Dr. Karina Korostelina (Chair)
Dr. Dan Rothbart
Dr. Al Fuertes
Abstract:
This dissertation research engages with the literature on the social construction of the acquired identity formed by the labels of victim and perpetrator as well as the notion of “diasporic consciousness” created in the context of post-conflict settings. In the case of Bosnian American and Rwandan American communities, the labels of victim and perpetrator have not only created specific narratives around accountability, but also crystallized our normative ideas of who had been harmed and who was responsible for inflicting that pain. Furthermore, these labels have created categories representing virtues and vices in the dynamics and aftermath of conflict. This dissertation explores the impact of the victim and perpetrator labels on subsequent generations, including the actions they undertook after understanding their historical past. The study analyzes the Bosnian American and Rwandan American communities’ social development and assimilation, their understanding of their pasts, and the social and political engagements of their members in addressing their role in their communities and nations. The study helps understand how and why young people either distance themselves from their communities or become activists, sometimes even radicals.
scar.gmu.edu

[@KishoreMurthyDr]

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