A study of identity within the Chinese community in Wellington

Abstract

This thesis is a study of the processes of adaptation and the management of identity of a minority community, the Chinese in Wellington. Because the identity of a minority group is continually changing, it views identity as a social process in a sociohistorical context. In other words, identity is seen as part of the process of adaptation. The theoretical framework developed is used to examine Chinese ethnic status at three levels - the individual, group and collective. Collective adaptation and management of identity are largely reflected in the proliferation of organised groups and voluntary associations. Thus Chinese community organisations are appraised in a historical and comparative perspective and its relevance for the New Zealand situation analysed. The development of Chinese voluntary associations in Wellington is traced as a reflection of the changing social-psychological circumstances the Chinese found themselves in at various periods in Sino-European relations. The role of the hui kuan, the church and, in particular, the community centres is discussed. The ramifications of the community centres for the Chinese community and its relations with the majority society are then drawn. The links between formal and informal association are studied by looking into the significance of kinship ties and closed friendship circles in providing leadership and membership of the voluntary associations. The different perspective of first and second generation Chinese is contrasted. Ethnic group boundary formation and maintenance are effected through both these formal and informal mechanisms; and the preservation of Chinese ethnic identity in the face of greater involvement of the second generation in European society, assured only through endogamous unions.