Being Ethnic: 3Rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

Eva Sajoo Research Associate

INSTITUTE for DIASPORA Research & Engagement Table of Contents

2 Executive Summary 7 Introduction 10 Self-Identi cation 12 Survey Objectives 12 Connections to Italy 14 Language and Family 16 The Meaning of Italian Identity 17 Religion 20 Social Perceptions of Italian Identity 22 Dierence 24 Social Bonds 28 Preserving Italian Identity 30 The Italian Cultural Centre 31 Looking Ahead 31 Afterword 32 Appendix A: Survey Questions

Executive Summary

This project was the result of a The second objective of the study partnership between the Institute for emerges from this. Identifying the Diaspora Research & Engagement, changing needs and characteristics of the and the Italian Cultural Centre of third generation provides direction to Vancouver (ICC). It had a dual institutions developed to serve the Italian objective. First, to understand the community. The Italian Community relationship young Italian Canadians Centre (ICC) was originally founded in have with their cultural heritage. The 1977 by thirteen distinct Italian Institute is interested in the study of Associations in order to “promote Italian diaspora populations, de ned as a culture, values, and heritage, and to share group of people who leave their these with other communities”. It now country of origin and reside oers a variety of services including elsewhere, while retaining some type language classes, cultural events, catering, of connection or sense of aliation event facilities, a museum, and social with their country of origin. This space. The challenge for the ICC (also type of connection is often strongest known as Il Centro) is to stay in touch in rst generation immigrants, who with the needs of the emerging may have family ties and engage in generation of Italian Canadians, whose practices such as sending remittances. interest in and understanding of Italian However, the longer an immigrant culture is likely to be distinct from that community has been established in a of their parents and grandparents. This new country, the more distant the ties situation is not unique to the Italian to the country of origin are likely to community; there are several other become. The second generation is cultural community centers in typically less connected to the original Vancouver that are also seeking to renew country, but this may not be true of themselves in order to stay relevant. the third. There was some evidence of an increased interest in Italian culture We received a total of 104 responses, in amongst the third generation in the period May 2014—October 2014. Vancouver. This study attempts to investigate this, and understand the The study took the form of an online reasons underlying the phenomenon. survey, which participants accessed from By isolating third generation Italian their own computers. It consisted of Canadians (those whose grandparents thirty questions, designed to identify the came from Italy), this study takes a ways 3rd generation members described snapshot of the evolution of a themselves, and any practices they community, and the extent to which it engaged in which reinforced their retains a diaspora connection. connection to their Italian heritage. In order to understand which behaviours

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might contribute to maintaining a given on the survey were: Italian, strong sense of cultural identity, Italian-Canadian, Canadian, or Other. answers have been grouped in four Participants are identi ed only by this categories, determined by the way in description, and a number — Italian which participants described Canadian 41, for example. themselves. The options they were Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver might contribute to maintaining a given on the survey were: Italian, strong sense of cultural identity, Italian-Canadian, Canadian, or Other. answers have been grouped in four Participants are identi ed only by this categories, determined by the way in description, and a number — Italian which participants described Canadian 41, for example. themselves. The options they were

Canadians, due to their ethnic roots. countries and arrive here, but it is this The Italian Cultural Centre of these are the things that seem to Of all participants, 61% said they felt very experience of departure and Vancouver (also known as Il Centro) is endure. distinct, while the rest said they did arrival in family history that so many currently looking at ways to reach out not feel dierent. Curiously, both of us share. Contrary to the fear of and engage the third generation of the Looking Ahead groups pointed to the same fact to fragmentation, it is this very thing community. The language classes it This study was a relatively small justify their answers: Canada’s that may be a central part of national oers are already an area of growing snapshot of Vancouver’s Italian multicultural society. The fact that identity and communal solidarity. interest. Among the other activities community. It would be useful to look the country is made up of so many requested by participants were at Italian populations in other parts of dierent immigrant (and indigenous) Participants were also asked how they cooking classes and social activities Canada, to see whether a similar groups means that it may lack a thought Italians were viewed in speci cally designed for people under interest is evident in the third strong sense of uni ed cultural Canada. This question was designed 40. There was also some interest in generation there. Another area for practices. However, it was this very to test whether there was a getting help accessing genealogical future research is to compare third fact of Canada being made up of connection between the idea that records and building family trees. generation Italians in Canada with the various ethno-cultural groups that Italian culture was positively viewed third generation of other immigrant was itself seen as a source of common in Canada, and an individual’s own The sense of connection to Italy can communities. What part of the identity ground. willingness to be associated with it. be expected to change and diminish retrieval urge is common to third Surprisingly, while 64% thought over time, as a community ages past generation diaspora members, and “I feel as though there isn’t actually one Italians were positively viewed, and the memory of the rst generation which features are distinctively Italian? distinct “Canadian” culture, and we are 34% thought the image was mixed, who left. It seems the elements that These are all areas for further all made up of our own cultures. I feel these opinions were spread fairly last the longest are food, with all the investigation. However, the diaspora distinct as an Italian because we have evenly across categories. Those who memories it carries, and values. A experience is surely something that traditions and values that are not shared thought Italians had a great image in certain way of doing things, the many of us can relate to, in this country by all Canadians. I feel like our ties to Canada were not concentrated in the importance placed on growing your of immigrants. Much of this story will family are di erent than groups who self-described as “Italian” own vegetables, or gathering the resonate with our own experiences of other Canadians, for example” or “Italian-Canadian”. family around the table for a meal, preserving family traditions and (Italian-Canadian 43). identity, Italian or not. Preserving Identity “I feel the same as other Canadians. I Finally, participants were asked what live in a place surrounded by immigrants activities they thought might assist in and their descendants. I see great preserving Italian identity. Among similarities between our experiences” the comments that were repeated (Italian-Canadian 9). throughout our survey were the importance of language, tradition, What these responses indicate is a food, and social gatherings. The larger sense of who and what we are family was central to these individuals as a country. As a nation of as the rst social circle and the means immigrants, we belong to smaller through which values and traditions ethnic groups, but share the larger — not to mention food— were experience of being Canadians. passed down. Being able to speak Various immigrant communities have the language was seen as critical to their own particular stories of what retaining a connection with the drove them to leave their original country and culture of Italy. Executive Summary might contribute to maintaining a given on the survey were: Italian, SURVEY OBJECTIVES Most had visited or planned to, and strong sense of cultural identity, Italian-Canadian, Canadian, or Other. After grouping participants by many had existing family connections. answers have been grouped in four Participants are identi ed only by this self-description, the remainder of The experience of visiting Italy did categories, determined by the way in description, and a number — Italian the questions in the survey were not have the same eect on everyone: which participants described Canadian 41, for example. designed to examine the factors that some felt their sense of Italian identity themselves. The options they were might be responsible for strengthen, while others found that strengthening or weakening an being there highlighted dierences, individual’s sense of Italian identity. revealing how Canadian they were. The areas investigated were ongoing connection to Italy (through When participants were asked to communication or travel), language explain what being Italian meant to use, social practices, and perception them, the most common response was of how Italians are viewed in the importance of food and family. It Canada. There were also questions was also a source of uniqueness— a about the meaning and importance way of distinguishing themselves from of Italian heritage, and how it might everyone else. This identity was not be preserved. seen as in competition with being Canadian; rather, it was an additional RESULTS strand in an individual’s identity — an There was overwhelming agreement added richness. among participants (88%) that Italian identity was important, and Religion, speci cally Roman Catholic something that they wished to Christianity, was described by 75% of preserve and pass on to their participants as an important part of children. This was interesting, Italian identity. However, its because many of them reported that importance lay in the form of their parents had not taught them traditions like baptism, or holidays like the language, and some had parents La Befana Day. Most participants had who had been reluctant to instill a attended church and received religious strong sense of culture. The third instruction as children, but few generation seems to be more retained a personal sense of conviction. interested in maintaining this link. Being a “lapsed Catholic” was the most common position. While religion 55% spoke Italian, while 35% spoke continues to inect the traditions and little but had family who did. practices of Italian culture, faith was Language was seen as a key vehicle not something that characterised the for cultural transmission and majority of responses in this survey. retaining a connection to their heritage. Similarly, visits to or Difference contact with Italy was something We asked participants to tell us how that 93% of individuals reported. dierent they felt from other

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5 Executive Summary

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 6 Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

the period May 2014-October 1 2014. that we have a fairly diverse group. The survey was publicised through the Introduction ICC and IDRE websites, on social In order to understand which behaviours media, on yers distributed to Italian might contribute to maintaining a strong This project was the result of a investigate this in Vancouver, and businesses, and through radio and sense of cultural identity, answers have partnership between the Institute for understand the reasons underlying the newspaper interviews. In the week that been grouped in four categories, Diaspora Research & Engagement phenomenon. By isolating third the survey was covered in the media determined by the way in which (IDRE), and the Italian Cultural generation Italian Canadians (those (July 7-11) there was a sudden surge of participants described themselves. The Centre of Vancouver (ICC). It had a whose grandparents came from Italy), responses, which doubled the existing options they were given on the survey dual objective. First, to understand the this study takes a snapshot of the gure. were: Italian, Italian-Canadian, Canadian, relationship young Italian Canadians evolution of a community, and the or Other (please specify). Participants are have with their cultural heritage. The extent to which it retains a diaspora The study took the form of an online identi ed only by this description, and a Institute is interested in the study of connection. survey, which participants accessed from number— Italian Canadian 41, for diaspora populations, which are their own computers. It consisted of example. This system allowed us to track de ned as a group of people who leave The second objective of the study thirty questions, designed to identify the the responses of particular individuals their country of origin and reside in emerges from this. Identifying the ways 3rd generation members described throughout the survey, while preserving another country, while retaining some changing needs and characteristics of themselves, and any practices they the anonymity of participants. type of connection or sense of the third generation provides direction engaged in which reinforced their aliation with their country of origin. to institutions developed to serve the connection to their Italian heritage. Survey respondents were grouped by This type of connection is often Italian community. The Italian Participants were self-selecting, because self-description, since we are primarily strongest in rst generation Community Centre (ICC) was they heard about the study through one interested in the other common traits immigrants, who may have family ties, originally founded in 1977 by thirteen of several channels, and voluntarily went correlated with these descriptions, and and engage in practices such as sending distinct Italian Associations in order to online to ll out the survey. We did not whether any of them inuence an remittances. However, to make a “promote Italian culture, values, and select a sample to ensure coverage of individual’s description of identity. Of general statement, the longer an heritage, and to share these with other age, education, or gender. However, the the 104 responses, individuals grouped immigrant community has been communities”. It now oers a variety information participants supplied about themselves as follows: Italians 17, established in a new country, the more of services including language classes, themselves (illustrated below) indicates Italian-Canadians 54, Canadians 24, distant the ties to the country of origin cultural events, catering, event facilities, are likely to become. There was some a museum, and social space. The evidence of an increased interest in challenge for the ICC (also known as Il Italian culture amongst the third Centro) is to stay in touch with the generation in Vancouver, in the form of needs of the emerging generation of rising enrolment in language classes at Italian Canadians, whose interest in and 1 See Chiro, Giancarlo the ICC. A new Italian Cultural understanding of Italian culture is likely (2008). “Evaluations of Centre recently opened in Seattle, and to be distinct from that of their parents cultural identity in the there are anecdotal reports of Italian and grandparents. This situation is not personal narratives of a communities in Montreal and Toronto unique to the Italian community; there group of Tertiary students experiencing a surge in demand for are several other cultural community of Italian ancestry in language classes as well. Further, other centers in Vancouver that are also Australia.” Flinders 1 studies have been done in Australia , seeking to renew themselves in order to University Online Language tracking a similar pattern of cultural stay relevant. Group Online Review, Vol 3, rd reclamation among 3 generation Issue 3, November. Italians. This study attempts to We received a total of 104 responses, in pp.1-14.

the period May 2014-October 1 2014. that we have a fairly diverse group. The survey was publicised through the ICC and IDRE websites, on social In order to understand which behaviours media, on yers distributed to Italian might contribute to maintaining a strong This project was the result of a investigate this in Vancouver, and businesses, and through radio and sense of cultural identity, answers have partnership between the Institute for understand the reasons underlying the newspaper interviews. In the week that been grouped in four categories, Diaspora Research & Engagement phenomenon. By isolating third the survey was covered in the media determined by the way in which (IDRE), and the Italian Cultural generation Italian Canadians (those (July 7-11) there was a sudden surge of participants described themselves. The Centre of Vancouver (ICC). It had a whose grandparents came from Italy), responses, which doubled the existing options they were given on the survey dual objective. First, to understand the this study takes a snapshot of the gure. were: Italian, Italian-Canadian, Canadian, relationship young Italian Canadians evolution of a community, and the or Other (please specify). Participants are have with their cultural heritage. The extent to which it retains a diaspora The study took the form of an online identi ed only by this description, and a Institute is interested in the study of connection. survey, which participants accessed from number— Italian Canadian 41, for diaspora populations, which are their own computers. It consisted of example. This system allowed us to track de ned as a group of people who leave The second objective of the study thirty questions, designed to identify the the responses of particular individuals their country of origin and reside in emerges from this. Identifying the ways 3rd generation members described throughout the survey, while preserving another country, while retaining some changing needs and characteristics of themselves, and any practices they the anonymity of participants. type of connection or sense of the third generation provides direction engaged in which reinforced their aliation with their country of origin. to institutions developed to serve the connection to their Italian heritage. Survey respondents were grouped by This type of connection is often Italian community. The Italian Participants were self-selecting, because self-description, since we are primarily strongest in rst generation Community Centre (ICC) was they heard about the study through one interested in the other common traits immigrants, who may have family ties, originally founded in 1977 by thirteen of several channels, and voluntarily went correlated with these descriptions, and and engage in practices such as sending distinct Italian Associations in order to online to ll out the survey. We did not whether any of them inuence an remittances. However, to make a “promote Italian culture, values, and select a sample to ensure coverage of individual’s description of identity. Of general statement, the longer an heritage, and to share these with other age, education, or gender. However, the the 104 responses, individuals grouped immigrant community has been communities”. It now oers a variety information participants supplied about themselves as follows: Italians 17, established in a new country, the more of services including language classes, themselves (illustrated below) indicates Italian-Canadians 54, Canadians 24, distant the ties to the country of origin cultural events, catering, event facilities, are likely to become. There was some a museum, and social space. The evidence of an increased interest in challenge for the ICC (also known as Il Italian culture amongst the third Centro) is to stay in touch with the generation in Vancouver, in the form of needs of the emerging generation of rising enrolment in language classes at Italian Canadians, whose interest in and the ICC. A new Italian Cultural understanding of Italian culture is likely Centre recently opened in Seattle, and to be distinct from that of their parents there are anecdotal reports of Italian and grandparents. This situation is not communities in Montreal and Toronto unique to the Italian community; there experiencing a surge in demand for are several other cultural community language classes as well. Further, other centers in Vancouver that are also studies have been done in Australia1, seeking to renew themselves in order to tracking a similar pattern of cultural stay relevant. reclamation among 3rd generation Italians. This study attempts to We received a total of 104 responses, in

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Other 9. One interesting factor in might be more common among analyzing these groups is whether individuals in a certain age group. The certain age groups dominate one chart indicates that while people under category or another. For example, are 30 make up a signi cant percentage of people under 30 more likely to identify the Italian and Italian-Canadian groups as Italian-Canadian? Or do other age (at 70.6% and 64.8% respectively) brackets make up a majority of those describing themselves as responses in other description Canadian are more likely to be 30 or categories? This would indicate over, with only 37.5% younger. whether a desire for cultural identity the period May 2014-October 1 2014. that we have a fairly diverse group. The survey was publicised through the ICC and IDRE websites, on social In order to understand which behaviours media, on yers distributed to Italian might contribute to maintaining a strong This project was the result of a investigate this in Vancouver, and businesses, and through radio and sense of cultural identity, answers have partnership between the Institute for understand the reasons underlying the newspaper interviews. In the week that been grouped in four categories, Diaspora Research & Engagement phenomenon. By isolating third the survey was covered in the media determined by the way in which (IDRE), and the Italian Cultural generation Italian Canadians (those (July 7-11) there was a sudden surge of participants described themselves. The Centre of Vancouver (ICC). It had a whose grandparents came from Italy), responses, which doubled the existing options they were given on the survey dual objective. First, to understand the this study takes a snapshot of the gure. were: Italian, Italian-Canadian, Canadian, relationship young Italian Canadians evolution of a community, and the or Other (please specify). Participants are have with their cultural heritage. The extent to which it retains a diaspora The study took the form of an online identi ed only by this description, and a Institute is interested in the study of connection. survey, which participants accessed from number— Italian Canadian 41, for diaspora populations, which are their own computers. It consisted of example. This system allowed us to track de ned as a group of people who leave The second objective of the study thirty questions, designed to identify the the responses of particular individuals their country of origin and reside in emerges from this. Identifying the ways 3rd generation members described throughout the survey, while preserving another country, while retaining some changing needs and characteristics of themselves, and any practices they the anonymity of participants. type of connection or sense of the third generation provides direction engaged in which reinforced their aliation with their country of origin. to institutions developed to serve the connection to their Italian heritage. Survey respondents were grouped by This type of connection is often Italian community. The Italian Participants were self-selecting, because self-description, since we are primarily strongest in rst generation Community Centre (ICC) was they heard about the study through one interested in the other common traits immigrants, who may have family ties, originally founded in 1977 by thirteen of several channels, and voluntarily went correlated with these descriptions, and and engage in practices such as sending distinct Italian Associations in order to online to ll out the survey. We did not whether any of them inuence an remittances. However, to make a “promote Italian culture, values, and select a sample to ensure coverage of individual’s description of identity. Of general statement, the longer an heritage, and to share these with other age, education, or gender. However, the the 104 responses, individuals grouped immigrant community has been communities”. It now oers a variety information participants supplied about themselves as follows: Italians 17, established in a new country, the more of services including language classes, themselves (illustrated below) indicates Italian-Canadians 54, Canadians 24, distant the ties to the country of origin cultural events, catering, event facilities, are likely to become. There was some a museum, and social space. The evidence of an increased interest in challenge for the ICC (also known as Il Italian culture amongst the third Centro) is to stay in touch with the generation in Vancouver, in the form of needs of the emerging generation of rising enrolment in language classes at Italian Canadians, whose interest in and the ICC. A new Italian Cultural understanding of Italian culture is likely Centre recently opened in Seattle, and to be distinct from that of their parents there are anecdotal reports of Italian and grandparents. This situation is not communities in Montreal and Toronto unique to the Italian community; there experiencing a surge in demand for are several other cultural community language classes as well. Further, other centers in Vancouver that are also studies have been done in Australia1, seeking to renew themselves in order to tracking a similar pattern of cultural stay relevant. reclamation among 3rd generation Italians. This study attempts to We received a total of 104 responses, in

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

ITALIANS ITALIAN-CANADIANS Participants were asked to explain why The Italian-Canadian category was by they had chosen to describe far the largest, as more than 50% of themselves in one of these four participants chose this description of categories. The Italian category was themselves. One of the themes that came obviously the group which expressed up in many answers was the sense of the strongest connection to Italian identity as a distinguishing ethno-cultural identity. In explaining characteristic — a sense of uniqueness. As this self-description, individuals gave one participant put it, “I identify myself as answers like “I describe myself as Italian an Italian Canadian because I come from an because that is my culture…” (Italian 5), Italian heritage but was born in Canada. or “Because it is my heritage. Everyone is Emphasizing myself as Italian allows me to a Canadian” (Italian 13). One telling distinguish myself, creating a sense of identity remark was an explanation of what in a society that is diverse” (Italian-Canadian identity questions are perceived to 13). This supports the idea that one reason mean: “When people ask what you are, for the interest in cultural heritage that they’re asking about your heritage and your seems common amongst 3rd generation background. I wasn’t born in Italy, but my Italian immigrants is that it is a way of family is Italian so I am Italian” (Italian standing out within the larger Canadian 3). This reects the understanding that context. The fact that this description is within Canada at least, questions about inuenced by social context is supported identity are understood to be a by the fact that when traveling in Italy or reference to ethnic or cultural roots, elsewhere, the Canadian description of the things that make us dierent. identity may become more prominent. Other 9. One interesting factor in might be more common among This may be because the intention of the analyzing these groups is whether individuals in a certain age group. The certain age groups dominate one chart indicates that while people under category or another. For example, are 30 make up a signi cant percentage of people under 30 more likely to identify the Italian and Italian-Canadian groups as Italian-Canadian? Or do other age (at 70.6% and 64.8% respectively) brackets make up a majority of those describing themselves as responses in other description Canadian are more likely to be 30 or categories? This would indicate over, with only 37.5% younger. whether a desire for cultural identity

question is understood as citizenship, or “Italian-Canadian” because they saw when one travels abroad, or it may be culture as a more signi cant feature. A because the context in which one second reason was the idea that wishes to de ne one’s identity is “Italian-Canadian” properly applied dierent. The shared citizenship and only to more recent arrivals: “I was born culture of Canada, of which they in Canada, and therefore, by birth, I am partake, is more important than being Canadian. The title ‘Italian-Canadian’ I distinct within that society. feel should be given to the rst generation (of Italian-Canadians)” (Canadian 2). The For many participants, the hyphenated third main reason for choosing this “Italian-Canadian” label captured the description was a sense of distance from double nature of their sense of Italian ancestry. As one individual put it, themselves as connected to two countries. This response was quite typical: “Both sides of my family are from Italy which gives me a strong connection to being Italian. Being Canadian born, I love this country also” (Italian-Canadian 39). The sense of connection to Italy was a function of culture: values, traditions, food, and language that individuals had been exposed to through their families.

CANADIANS OTHER The “Canadian” category was the Those who identi ed as “Other” did so second largest, though it was half the mainly because they saw themselves as size of the “Italian-Canadian” group. culturally mixed. They had an Italian There were three main reasons people connection, but saw Canadian culture, gave for using this description of or another ethnic connection (such as themselves. The rst was citizenship: Acadian or Aboriginal, for example) as “Because I was born and raised in Canada” being a signi cant part of their identity (Canadian 13). These individuals were also. likely to say they had Italian heritage, but thought that citizenship was the primary factor in identity — in contrast to individuals who identi ed as “Italian” the period May 2014-October 1 2014. that we have a fairly diverse group. The survey was publicised through the ICC and IDRE websites, on social In order to understand which behaviours media, on yers distributed to Italian might contribute to maintaining a strong This project was the result of a investigate this in Vancouver, and businesses, and through radio and sense of cultural identity, answers have partnership between the Institute for understand the reasons underlying the newspaper interviews. In the week that been grouped in four categories, Diaspora Research & Engagement phenomenon. By isolating third the survey was covered in the media determined by the way in which (IDRE), and the Italian Cultural generation Italian Canadians (those (July 7-11) there was a sudden surge of participants described themselves. The Centre of Vancouver (ICC). It had a whose grandparents came from Italy), responses, which doubled the existing options they were given on the survey dual objective. First, to understand the this study takes a snapshot of the gure. were: Italian, Italian-Canadian, Canadian, relationship young Italian Canadians evolution of a community, and the or Other (please specify). Participants are have with their cultural heritage. The extent to which it retains a diaspora The study took the form of an online identi ed only by this description, and a Institute is interested in the study of connection. survey, which participants accessed from number— Italian Canadian 41, for diaspora populations, which are their own computers. It consisted of example. This system allowed us to track de ned as a group of people who leave The second objective of the study thirty questions, designed to identify the the responses of particular individuals their country of origin and reside in emerges from this. Identifying the ways 3rd generation members described throughout the survey, while preserving another country, while retaining some changing needs and characteristics of themselves, and any practices they the anonymity of participants. type of connection or sense of the third generation provides direction engaged in which reinforced their aliation with their country of origin. to institutions developed to serve the connection to their Italian heritage. Survey respondents were grouped by This type of connection is often Italian community. The Italian Participants were self-selecting, because self-description, since we are primarily strongest in rst generation Community Centre (ICC) was they heard about the study through one interested in the other common traits immigrants, who may have family ties, originally founded in 1977 by thirteen of several channels, and voluntarily went correlated with these descriptions, and and engage in practices such as sending distinct Italian Associations in order to online to ll out the survey. We did not whether any of them inuence an remittances. However, to make a “promote Italian culture, values, and select a sample to ensure coverage of individual’s description of identity. Of general statement, the longer an heritage, and to share these with other age, education, or gender. However, the the 104 responses, individuals grouped immigrant community has been communities”. It now oers a variety information participants supplied about themselves as follows: Italians 17, established in a new country, the more of services including language classes, themselves (illustrated below) indicates Italian-Canadians 54, Canadians 24, distant the ties to the country of origin cultural events, catering, event facilities, are likely to become. There was some a museum, and social space. The evidence of an increased interest in challenge for the ICC (also known as Il Italian culture amongst the third Centro) is to stay in touch with the generation in Vancouver, in the form of needs of the emerging generation of rising enrolment in language classes at Italian Canadians, whose interest in and the ICC. A new Italian Cultural understanding of Italian culture is likely Centre recently opened in Seattle, and to be distinct from that of their parents there are anecdotal reports of Italian and grandparents. This situation is not communities in Montreal and Toronto unique to the Italian community; there experiencing a surge in demand for are several other cultural community language classes as well. Further, other centers in Vancouver that are also studies have been done in Australia1, seeking to renew themselves in order to tracking a similar pattern of cultural stay relevant. reclamation among 3rd generation Italians. This study attempts to We received a total of 104 responses, in

Self-Identiﬁcation

ITALIANS ITALIAN-CANADIANS Participants were asked to explain why The Italian-Canadian category was by they had chosen to describe far the largest, as more than 50% of themselves in one of these four participants chose this description of categories. The Italian category was themselves. One of the themes that came obviously the group which expressed up in many answers was the sense of the strongest connection to Italian identity as a distinguishing ethno-cultural identity. In explaining characteristic — a sense of uniqueness. As this self-description, individuals gave one participant put it, “I identify myself as answers like “I describe myself as Italian an Italian Canadian because I come from an because that is my culture…” (Italian 5), Italian heritage but was born in Canada. or “Because it is my heritage. Everyone is Emphasizing myself as Italian allows me to a Canadian” (Italian 13). One telling distinguish myself, creating a sense of identity remark was an explanation of what in a society that is diverse” (Italian-Canadian identity questions are perceived to 13). This supports the idea that one reason mean: “When people ask what you are, for the interest in cultural heritage that they’re asking about your heritage and your seems common amongst 3rd generation background. I wasn’t born in Italy, but my Italian immigrants is that it is a way of family is Italian so I am Italian” (Italian standing out within the larger Canadian 3). This reects the understanding that context. The fact that this description is within Canada at least, questions about inuenced by social context is supported identity are understood to be a by the fact that when traveling in Italy or reference to ethnic or cultural roots, elsewhere, the Canadian description of the things that make us dierent. identity may become more prominent. Other 9. One interesting factor in might be more common among This may be because the intention of the analyzing these groups is whether individuals in a certain age group. The certain age groups dominate one chart indicates that while people under category or another. For example, are 30 make up a signi cant percentage of “I feel that I am a Canadian by birth, but my family and social people under 30 more likely to identify the Italian and Italian-Canadian groups life is highly influenced by Italian culture. It also depends on as Italian-Canadian? Or do other age (at 70.6% and 64.8% respectively) where I am asked. If someone asks me “what is your brackets make up a majority of those describing themselves as nationality” and I am in Canada, I normally reply with ‘Italian’. responses in other description Canadian are more likely to be 30 or However, when I am in Italy or somewhere else in the world and categories? This would indicate over, with only 37.5% younger. someone asks me the same question, I normally reply with whether a desire for cultural identity ‘Canadian’” (Italian-Canadian 15).

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Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver question is understood as citizenship, or “Italian-Canadian” because they saw when one travels abroad, or it may be culture as a more signi cant feature. A because the context in which one second reason was the idea that wishes to de ne one’s identity is “Italian-Canadian” properly applied dierent. The shared citizenship and only to more recent arrivals: “I was born culture of Canada, of which they in Canada, and therefore, by birth, I am partake, is more important than being Canadian. The title ‘Italian-Canadian’ I distinct within that society. feel should be given to the rst generation (of Italian-Canadians)” (Canadian 2). The For many participants, the hyphenated third main reason for choosing this “Italian-Canadian” label captured the description was a sense of distance from double nature of their sense of Italian ancestry. As one individual put it, themselves as connected to two countries. This response was quite typical: “Both sides of my family are from “I don’t ‘feel’ Italian. My mother was Italian and Italy which gives me a strong connection to tried to ‘blend in’ with other kids when their family being Italian. Being Canadian born, I love moved to Canada. She was embarrassed of how this country also” (Italian-Canadian 39). Italian her parents were, so she distanced herself The sense of connection to Italy was a function of culture: values, traditions, from her heritage and did not pass down her food, and language that individuals had Italian heritage to myself or my brother” been exposed to through their families. (Canadian 10).

11 ITALIANS ITALIAN-CANADIANS Participants were asked to explain why The Italian-Canadian category was by they had chosen to describe far the largest, as more than 50% of themselves in one of these four participants chose this description of categories. The Italian category was themselves. One of the themes that came obviously the group which expressed up in many answers was the sense of the strongest connection to Italian identity as a distinguishing ethno-cultural identity. In explaining characteristic — a sense of uniqueness. As this self-description, individuals gave one participant put it, “I identify myself as answers like “I describe myself as Italian an Italian Canadian because I come from an because that is my culture…” (Italian 5), Italian heritage but was born in Canada. or “Because it is my heritage. Everyone is Emphasizing myself as Italian allows me to a Canadian” (Italian 13). One telling distinguish myself, creating a sense of identity remark was an explanation of what in a society that is diverse” (Italian-Canadian identity questions are perceived to 13). This supports the idea that one reason mean: “When people ask what you are, for the interest in cultural heritage that they’re asking about your heritage and your seems common amongst 3rd generation background. I wasn’t born in Italy, but my Italian immigrants is that it is a way of family is Italian so I am Italian” (Italian standing out within the larger Canadian 3). This reects the understanding that context. The fact that this description is within Canada at least, questions about inuenced by social context is supported identity are understood to be a by the fact that when traveling in Italy or reference to ethnic or cultural roots, elsewhere, the Canadian description of the things that make us dierent. identity may become more prominent. This may be because the intention of the

Survey Objectives, Connections to Italy question is understood as citizenship, or “Italian-Canadian” because they saw when one travels abroad, or it may be culture as a more signi cant feature. A because the context in which one second reason was the idea that Survey Objectives wishes to de ne one’s identity is “Italian-Canadian” properly applied After grouping participants by communication or travel), language dierent. The shared citizenship and only to more recent arrivals: “I was born self-description, the remainder of use, social practices, and perception culture of Canada, of which they in Canada, and therefore, by birth, I am the questions in the survey were of how Italians are viewed in partake, is more important than being Canadian. The title ‘Italian-Canadian’ I designed to examine the factors that Canada. There were also questions distinct within that society. feel should be given to the rst generation (of might be responsible for about the meaning and importance Italian-Canadians)” (Canadian 2). The strengthening or weakening an of Italian heritage, and how it might For many participants, the hyphenated third main reason for choosing this individual’s sense of Italian identity. be preserved. These questions will “Italian-Canadian” label captured the description was a sense of distance from The areas investigated were ongoing be dealt with at the end of the double nature of their sense of Italian ancestry. As one individual put it, connection to Italy (through report. themselves as connected to two countries. This response was quite typical: “Both sides of my family are from Italy which gives me a strong connection to being Italian. Being Canadian born, I love Connections to Italy this country also” (Italian-Canadian 39). The sense of connection to Italy was a function of culture: values, traditions, Regular contact with Italy seems to be a had lived in that country, and also a food, and language that individuals had strong factor inuencing a person’s sense of where their own family been exposed to through their families. sense of Italian identity. 88% of traditions and manners had originated. self-identi ed Italians and 100% of This is often described as a sense of Italian-Canadians had existing family “coming home”. As one respondent CANADIANS OTHER connections to Italy, and/or had traveled said, “it felt very familiar and somewhat of a The “Canadian” category was the Those who identi ed as “Other” did so there. Family connections were either homecoming. It has strengthened my Italian second largest, though it was half the mainly because they saw themselves as relatives who still lived in Italy, with identity, although Italy today is not the same size of the “Italian-Canadian” group. culturally mixed. They had an Italian whom they remained in contact, or place my grandparents left” There were three main reasons people connection, but saw Canadian culture, family members in Canada who (Italian-Canadian 9). “I felt like I was gave for using this description of or another ethnic connection (such as traveled back to Italy regularly. Many ‘home’. Kind of hard to explain” themselves. The rst was citizenship: Acadian or Aboriginal, for example) as participants had traveled to Italy (Canadian 11). Many individuals “Because I was born and raised in Canada” being a signi cant part of their identity personally, even if they had no reporting this type of positive (Canadian 13). These individuals were also. remaining connection to relatives in experience also expressed a desire to likely to say they had Italian heritage, that country. This was also true of 87% learn the language, and even live in Italy but thought that citizenship was the of Canadians and 77% of Others. for a period of time. primary factor in identity — in contrast to individuals who identi ed as “Italian” Where the dierence emerged was in However, while visiting Italy can how visiting Italy aected individuals. reinforce a sense of cultural connection, One type of response was a very positive it can also expose dierences. For other sense of connection. This was both with individuals, the experience was mixed the history of their grandparents who in this way.

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 12 Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

“It actually furthered my Canadian mentioning that the experience also identity. I realized that in terms of highlighted their Canadian-ness— or everyday life, I am a tried and true dierence. All but one of the Others who Canadian. However, I still felt a strong had visited also reported that the This study was in part, sparked by the sides of the family. Self-described connection to my Italian roots” experience strengthened their Italian observation that there was new interest Canadians were almost all from (Italian-Canadian 7). connection. in learning Italian amongst the 3rd homes where only one parent was generation in Vancouver. The Italian Italian. There was no obvious Cultural Centre (ICC) oers language dierence in results based on the “I always thought of myself as Italian, but not so much when I went classes, and the new enrolment attracted gender of the Italian parent. So far, so back to Italy. Here in Canada, the Italian immigrants have a sort of the attention of the Centre’s Director, predictable. It seems obvious that Italian-Canadian hybrid culture. Not quite fully Italian and not quite Mauro Vescera. A new Italian Cultural when the cultural heritage is fully Canadian. It is a mix of both cultures, and that becomes very Centre recently opened in Seattle, and transmitted through both parents, the apparent to me when I visit Italy” there are anecdotal reports of Italian child would have a stronger sense of it. (Italian-Canadian 6). communities in Montreal and Toronto What was harder to explain were the experiencing a surge in demand as well. results in the Italian-Canadian It was an early clue that there might be category. It was divided almost evenly Interestingly, those who identi ed as These two types of responses are, of an emerging interest in cultural identity between participants who had two Canadian were more likely to have course, not particular to Italian in this demographic. Participants were Italian parents, and those who did not. had a more distant feeling when emigrants. Members of other diaspora asked to indicate if they spoke and/or What was it that caused these visiting Italy. “It didn’t really a ect me, communities have comparable reactions wrote the language, what regional individuals with only one Italian it just made me more aware of what life to visiting the country their parents or variety they used, whom they spoke it parent to identify more strongly with is like in Italy” (Canadian 7). In fact, grandparents originated from. The with, and whether anyone else in their their Italian heritage, while so many 33% of responses in this category double sense of both recognition and family spoke Italian. others from comparable homes chose were of this type. Responses like this alienation, foreignness and belonging, is to identify as Canadian? Clearly one were not found among those part of the diaspora identity. They are at Participants were also asked if both having two Italian parents alone is not who described themselves as Italian once inside outsiders in their new parents were of Italian descent. Here a enough to explain the data. or Italian-Canadian. Of the Italians country, and outside insiders in the land very interesting pattern emerged in who had visited Italy, all reported of their forebearers. their answers. For this question, if the One trend that emerged in the answers strong positive reactions. Among respondent indicated that there were was the eect of inter-marriage with Italian- Canadians, 90% reported Italian connections in both father and non-Italians. Without exception, this similar reactions, with only 9% mother, they were included in the “Yes” seemed to dilute the sense of Italian category, even if there were other ethnic identity, not only for the children of ingredients. For example, respondent such marriages, but even for the Italian Other 2 said “Father is full, Mother is spouse. See for example the responses half”. Since this means that both of two individuals who described parents have an Italian connection, themselves as Canadian: rather than Italian being associated with only one side of the family, we classi ed “I associate it [Italian identity] mainly with this response as “Yes”. Perhaps my early childhood, when I spent a lot of unsurprisingly, of those in the Italian time at my grandmother’s house and with category almost all had Italian on both my cousins in East Vancouver. I have great

Language and Family

This study was in part, sparked by the sides of the family. Self-described observation that there was new interest Canadians were almost all from in learning Italian amongst the 3rd homes where only one parent was generation in Vancouver. The Italian Italian. There was no obvious Cultural Centre (ICC) oers language dierence in results based on the classes, and the new enrolment attracted gender of the Italian parent. So far, so the attention of the Centre’s Director, predictable. It seems obvious that Mauro Vescera. A new Italian Cultural when the cultural heritage is Centre recently opened in Seattle, and transmitted through both parents, the there are anecdotal reports of Italian child would have a stronger sense of it. communities in Montreal and Toronto What was harder to explain were the experiencing a surge in demand as well. results in the Italian-Canadian It was an early clue that there might be category. It was divided almost evenly an emerging interest in cultural identity between participants who had two in this demographic. Participants were Italian parents, and those who did not. asked to indicate if they spoke and/or What was it that caused these wrote the language, what regional individuals with only one Italian variety they used, whom they spoke it parent to identify more strongly with with, and whether anyone else in their their Italian heritage, while so many family spoke Italian. others from comparable homes chose to identify as Canadian? Clearly Participants were also asked if both having two Italian parents alone is not parents were of Italian descent. Here a enough to explain the data. very interesting pattern emerged in their answers. For this question, if the One trend that emerged in the answers respondent indicated that there were was the eect of inter-marriage with Italian connections in both father and non-Italians. Without exception, this mother, they were included in the “Yes” seemed to dilute the sense of Italian category, even if there were other ethnic identity, not only for the children of ingredients. For example, respondent such marriages, but even for the Italian Other 2 said “Father is full, Mother is spouse. See for example the responses half”. Since this means that both of two individuals who described parents have an Italian connection, themselves as Canadian: rather than Italian being associated with only one side of the family, we classi ed “I associate it [Italian identity] mainly with this response as “Yes”. Perhaps my early childhood, when I spent a lot of unsurprisingly, of those in the Italian time at my grandmother’s house and with category almost all had Italian on both my cousins in East Vancouver. I have great

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memories of lunches at my Nonna’s house tangible connection to Italian identity. (always with Mio home delivery orange However, the answers participants gave soda!), shopping at Tosi’s, and going to do not clearly support this idea. Among Whitecap’s games in the ‘70s. Now, Italians, 70% spoke Italian, and 17% perhaps because I generally use my very could not, but had family members who Anglo-sounding married name, I don’t feel did. The Italian-Canadian and Canadian signicantly Italian. My daughter groups were quite similar in their identies my father as Italian, but does not answers: 31% of Italian Canadians did think of me or herself as such” (Canadian not speak the language but had family 22). who could. The same was true for 50% of Canadians. While the number of “… I am only half Italian, as my mother Italian-Canadians who spoke the married a British-Canadian. I don’t feel language themselves was much higher like I have any identity at all. Am I Italian than among the Canadians — 61% vs like my mother, or British Canadian like 37%, this is only slightly higher than the my father?” (Canadian 11) number of Italian-Canadians who had two Italian parents. It fails to explain the One possible answer to why children signi cant number of Italian-Canadians with only one Italian parent might who had only one Italian parent, and retain a stronger sense of the culture could not personally speak the language, was language use. If Italian was spoken but retained a stronger Italian aliation in the home, a child might have a more than their Canadian counterparts. This study was in part, sparked by the sides of the family. Self-described observation that there was new interest Canadians were almost all from in learning Italian amongst the 3rd homes where only one parent was generation in Vancouver. The Italian Italian. There was no obvious Cultural Centre (ICC) oers language dierence in results based on the classes, and the new enrolment attracted gender of the Italian parent. So far, so the attention of the Centre’s Director, predictable. It seems obvious that Mauro Vescera. A new Italian Cultural when the cultural heritage is Centre recently opened in Seattle, and transmitted through both parents, the there are anecdotal reports of Italian child would have a stronger sense of it. communities in Montreal and Toronto What was harder to explain were the experiencing a surge in demand as well. results in the Italian-Canadian It was an early clue that there might be category. It was divided almost evenly an emerging interest in cultural identity between participants who had two in this demographic. Participants were Italian parents, and those who did not. asked to indicate if they spoke and/or What was it that caused these wrote the language, what regional individuals with only one Italian variety they used, whom they spoke it parent to identify more strongly with with, and whether anyone else in their their Italian heritage, while so many family spoke Italian. others from comparable homes chose to identify as Canadian? Clearly Participants were also asked if both having two Italian parents alone is not parents were of Italian descent. Here a enough to explain the data. very interesting pattern emerged in their answers. For this question, if the One trend that emerged in the answers respondent indicated that there were was the eect of inter-marriage with Italian connections in both father and non-Italians. Without exception, this mother, they were included in the “Yes” seemed to dilute the sense of Italian category, even if there were other ethnic identity, not only for the children of ingredients. For example, respondent such marriages, but even for the Italian Other 2 said “Father is full, Mother is spouse. See for example the responses half”. Since this means that both of two individuals who described parents have an Italian connection, themselves as Canadian: rather than Italian being associated with only one side of the family, we classi ed “I associate it [Italian identity] mainly with this response as “Yes”. Perhaps my early childhood, when I spent a lot of unsurprisingly, of those in the Italian time at my grandmother’s house and with category almost all had Italian on both my cousins in East Vancouver. I have great

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

However, the sense of history Food and the pre-eminent importance frequently stretched much farther back, of family were very popular responses, to include the Roman Empire, the and some participants asserted that these Renaissance, and the scope of art and two priorities reinforced each other. “It culture produced over the centuries. means being close to your family and doing Italian identity, for these individuals, anything for them. And believing that meant a personal link to a very long good food really does bring people closer civilizational narrative, with its high together” (Italian 7). and low points. Among those who identi ed strongly This sense of membership in another with their Italian heritage (no matter community was also seen by some as a how they chose to describe themselves), way to preserve a unique identity a relationship with grandparents was within mainstream Canadian society. frequently mentioned. In some cases it “It really means a connection to my roots. was an appreciation for their It’s also a minor way of di erentiating grandparents’ passage from the “Old myself within the larger Canadian society” Country” to the new, but often it was (Canadian 21). This diasporic identity the memory of “lunches at Nonna2’s was not seen as a contest with house”(Canadian 22) or “Nonno’s garden” Canadian identity, but rather, an (Italian 14) that were signi cant in additional richness— another strand of embedding an appreciation of food and identity interwoven with being family as Italian identity. Canadian. This study was in part, sparked by the sides of the family. Self-described observation that there was new interest Canadians were almost all from in learning Italian amongst the 3rd homes where only one parent was generation in Vancouver. The Italian Italian. There was no obvious Cultural Centre (ICC) oers language dierence in results based on the classes, and the new enrolment attracted gender of the Italian parent. So far, so the attention of the Centre’s Director, predictable. It seems obvious that Mauro Vescera. A new Italian Cultural when the cultural heritage is Centre recently opened in Seattle, and transmitted through both parents, the there are anecdotal reports of Italian child would have a stronger sense of it. communities in Montreal and Toronto What was harder to explain were the experiencing a surge in demand as well. results in the Italian-Canadian It was an early clue that there might be category. It was divided almost evenly an emerging interest in cultural identity between participants who had two in this demographic. Participants were Italian parents, and those who did not. asked to indicate if they spoke and/or What was it that caused these wrote the language, what regional individuals with only one Italian variety they used, whom they spoke it parent to identify more strongly with with, and whether anyone else in their their Italian heritage, while so many family spoke Italian. others from comparable homes chose to identify as Canadian? Clearly Participants were also asked if both having two Italian parents alone is not parents were of Italian descent. Here a enough to explain the data. very interesting pattern emerged in their answers. For this question, if the One trend that emerged in the answers respondent indicated that there were was the eect of inter-marriage with Italian connections in both father and non-Italians. Without exception, this mother, they were included in the “Yes” seemed to dilute the sense of Italian category, even if there were other ethnic identity, not only for the children of ingredients. For example, respondent such marriages, but even for the Italian Other 2 said “Father is full, Mother is spouse. See for example the responses half”. Since this means that both of two individuals who described parents have an Italian connection, themselves as Canadian: rather than Italian being associated with only one side of the family, we classi ed “I associate it [Italian identity] mainly with this response as “Yes”. Perhaps my early childhood, when I spent a lot of unsurprisingly, of those in the Italian time at my grandmother’s house and with category almost all had Italian on both my cousins in East Vancouver. I have great

The Meaning of Italian Identity

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Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

However, the sense of history Food and the pre-eminent importance was at the centre of life in the hamlets from answers which distinguished between frequently stretched much farther back, of family were very popular responses, 2 Nonna and Nonno are which pre and post war immigrants originate personal non-belief, and religion as part to include the Roman Empire, the and some participants asserted that these Italian words for Grand- from. It is part of my identity only through of family traditions. See for example Renaissance, and the scope of art and two priorities reinforced each other. “It mother and Grandfather. childhood memories of my grandparents and these responses: culture produced over the centuries. means being close to your family and doing step grandparents” (Italian 17). Italian identity, for these individuals, anything for them. And believing that “…yes. The Catholic Church is inescapable. meant a personal link to a very long good food really does bring people closer Of the self-described "Italians”, 82% I don’t practice, but I will baptize my son— civilizational narrative, with its high together” (Italian 7). armed the importance of Catholicism it’s intertwined with family traditions” and low points. to Italian identity. Among Italian- (Italian-Canadian 19). Among those who identi ed strongly Canadians, 77% agreed that religion had This sense of membership in another with their Italian heritage (no matter a signi cant inuence on Italian culture “Religion was important to my family as I community was also seen by some as a how they chose to describe themselves), and traditions. 54% Canadians agreed, was growing up. I am not religious as an way to preserve a unique identity a relationship with grandparents was as did all those describing themselves as adult but I still celebrate the religious within mainstream Canadian society. frequently mentioned. In some cases it Other. This means that a total of 75% of holidays as social and cultural events that “It really means a connection to my roots. was an appreciation for their all participants thought Catholicism was connect me with my heritage” (Italian- It’s also a minor way of di erentiating grandparents’ passage from the “Old a signi cant part of Italian identity. Canadian 9). myself within the larger Canadian society” Country” to the new, but often it was (Canadian 21). This diasporic identity the memory of “lunches at Nonna2’s was not seen as a contest with house”(Canadian 22) or “Nonno’s garden” Canadian identity, but rather, an (Italian 14) that were signi cant in additional richness— another strand of embedding an appreciation of food and identity interwoven with being family as Italian identity. Canadian.

What was interesting about these One trend which surfaced in the Religion answers was that when individuals said responses was that most participants had “No”, they often seemed to have received some exposure to Roman Question 21: Do you view religion personal conviction. The extent to interpreted the question as asking about Catholicism through family traditions as part of the Italian identity? To which this aspect of Italian culture was their personal faith or religious belief. such as baptism, and often attendance in what extent is it part of your retained in the third generation, in a For example, some responded by saying church, catechism class, or Catholic identity? predominantly secular Canadian “I am an atheist” (Italian 7), or “No, school. However, many described context, was what we hoped to discover. religion is not important to me” themselves as “lapsed” or non-practicing This question attempted to ascertain the (Italian-Canadian 2). This is a legitimate adults. There was, as a result, familiarity extent of religious aliation in diaspora The answers supported the initial response, insofar as these individuals with Catholic practices, and even an Italians. It was assumed that most of assumption about rst generation personally identify with Italian culture embedding of these in family events, but their grandparents, the rst generation connections to Roman Catholicism. but feel religion is not a necessary part not necessarily a personal identi cation immigrants, would have had a strong Many participants attributed the of it. However, it leaves open the with the religion. What emerged was that sense of religion— Roman Catholic religious exposure in their lives to the possibility that if they understood the for many 3rd generation Italians, religion Christianity, to be speci c— at least as inuence of their grandparents. As one question to be about Italians in general, is a matter of cultural practice, not part of their educational and cultural respondent put it, “Religion was a strong they might have answered dierently. personal conviction. background, if not as a matter of element of a traditional Italian culture that There were a signi cant number of

One possible explanation for this is that The lack of religious identi cation amongst these individuals were born and raised in diaspora Italians in Vancouver may be a form Canada, where institutional religion has of acculturation: identifying as Catholic is little public pro le, and belief is largely a not only a mark of dierence from the private aair. Some answers hinted that secular mainstream, it may be perceived as this social context inuenced behaviour as a negative form of dierence. This pattern early as the rst generation. may not hold for other parts of Canada, of course. Food and family, the other strong “I do not view religion as part of the Italian markers of Italian identity described by identity, however, many people in Italy do. No participants are seen as distinctive, but one in my family is very religious. My these are markers that are proudly grandparents grew up in very Roman armed. It would be useful to compare Catholic families back in Italy, but since this pattern of relationship to religion moving to Canada have had very little with other diasporic communities that involvement in religion. They are more come to Canada from countries in which spiritual/superstitious, and do not attend mass, religion is a more public strand of cultural save for the occasional baptism, wedding, or identity. funeral” (Canadian 16). Perhaps the most telling reection of how It seems that relocating to a country in people viewed religion was that, when which the social structure did not reinforce asked what parts of Italian culture they religious practice had a rapid eect on personally related to the most, the behaviour for the rst generation in this overwhelming response was food and family. Other responses indicated that the family. Despite the fact that 75% of rst generation retained more of a participants had earlier agreed that connection to religious practice, but this was religion was part of Italian identity, it was not passed down as strongly to the second not frequently mentioned in response to and third generation. this question. Religion, along with sport, art, or other additional items, was a “Most Italians I know including myself have minority response. In other words, there grown up with Catholic traditions but do not is a recognition of the historical continue to follow them once they enter their late importance of Catholicism, which teen years. Probably due to Vancouver’s large continues to be felt in certain rituals and non-religious population” (Italian- holidays, but it is no longer something that Canadian 26). many people personally espouse. All of the participants in this study had participants relate to their Italian roots. some Italian ancestry, regardless of how Recurring themes were a sense of pride, they chose to describe themselves. As and “a connection to something larger than third generation immigrants, they were me. It means being connected to people who removed some way from the country and understand some of the essence of who I am culture of their grandparents. What Italian and WHY I am the way I am” (Other 9). identity now meant to them was a central This larger sense of community was question. They were also asked what aspects grounded in both cultural practices and of the culture they most relate to, and to historical memory. For many participants, it what extent they thought religion played a was the recent history of their role in that heritage. grandparents’ migration to Canada to start a new life, and the courage it took to leave This question was one of the most pivotal all that they knew and build a new life in the study, as we tried to understand how from scratch, with few resources.

Religon

However, the sense of history Food and the pre-eminent importance was at the centre of life in the hamlets from answers which distinguished between frequently stretched much farther back, of family were very popular responses, which pre and post war immigrants originate personal non-belief, and religion as part to include the Roman Empire, the and some participants asserted that these from. It is part of my identity only through of family traditions. See for example Renaissance, and the scope of art and two priorities reinforced each other. “It childhood memories of my grandparents and these responses: culture produced over the centuries. means being close to your family and doing step grandparents” (Italian 17). Italian identity, for these individuals, anything for them. And believing that “…yes. The Catholic Church is inescapable. meant a personal link to a very long good food really does bring people closer Of the self-described "Italians”, 82% I don’t practice, but I will baptize my son— civilizational narrative, with its high together” (Italian 7). armed the importance of Catholicism it’s intertwined with family traditions” and low points. to Italian identity. Among Italian- (Italian-Canadian 19). Among those who identi ed strongly Canadians, 77% agreed that religion had This sense of membership in another with their Italian heritage (no matter a signi cant inuence on Italian culture “Religion was important to my family as I community was also seen by some as a how they chose to describe themselves), and traditions. 54% Canadians agreed, was growing up. I am not religious as an way to preserve a unique identity a relationship with grandparents was as did all those describing themselves as adult but I still celebrate the religious within mainstream Canadian society. frequently mentioned. In some cases it Other. This means that a total of 75% of holidays as social and cultural events that “It really means a connection to my roots. was an appreciation for their all participants thought Catholicism was connect me with my heritage” (Italian- It’s also a minor way of di erentiating grandparents’ passage from the “Old a signi cant part of Italian identity. Canadian 9). myself within the larger Canadian society” Country” to the new, but often it was the memory of “lunches at Nonna2’s (Canadian 21). This diasporic identity “Very much so. I was raised as a Catholic and although I’m no was not seen as a contest with house”(Canadian 22) or “Nonno’s garden” longer religious I still consider myself a Catholic. It’s a cultural Canadian identity, but rather, an (Italian 14) that were signi cant in thing— I don’t think you need to believe in it to be affected by it. As additional richness— another strand of embedding an appreciation of food and identity interwoven with being family as Italian identity. Italians, much of the shorthand we use revolves around the Canadian. church, and it’s as much a part of our culture as anything else. There’s really no escaping it” (Other, 2)

What was interesting about these One trend which surfaced in the answers was that when individuals said responses was that most participants had “No”, they often seemed to have received some exposure to Roman Question 21: Do you view religion personal conviction. The extent to interpreted the question as asking about Catholicism through family traditions as part of the Italian identity? To which this aspect of Italian culture was their personal faith or religious belief. such as baptism, and often attendance in what extent is it part of your retained in the third generation, in a For example, some responded by saying church, catechism class, or Catholic identity? predominantly secular Canadian “I am an atheist” (Italian 7), or “No, school. However, many described context, was what we hoped to discover. religion is not important to me” themselves as “lapsed” or non-practicing This question attempted to ascertain the (Italian-Canadian 2). This is a legitimate adults. There was, as a result, familiarity extent of religious aliation in diaspora The answers supported the initial response, insofar as these individuals with Catholic practices, and even an Italians. It was assumed that most of assumption about rst generation personally identify with Italian culture embedding of these in family events, but their grandparents, the rst generation connections to Roman Catholicism. but feel religion is not a necessary part not necessarily a personal identi cation immigrants, would have had a strong Many participants attributed the of it. However, it leaves open the with the religion. What emerged was that sense of religion— Roman Catholic religious exposure in their lives to the possibility that if they understood the for many 3rd generation Italians, religion Christianity, to be speci c— at least as inuence of their grandparents. As one question to be about Italians in general, is a matter of cultural practice, not part of their educational and cultural respondent put it, “Religion was a strong they might have answered dierently. personal conviction. background, if not as a matter of element of a traditional Italian culture that There were a signi cant number of

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 18

One possible explanation for this is that The lack of religious identi cation amongst these individuals were born and raised in diaspora Italians in Vancouver may be a form Canada, where institutional religion has of acculturation: identifying as Catholic is little public pro le, and belief is largely a not only a mark of dierence from the private aair. Some answers hinted that secular mainstream, it may be perceived as this social context inuenced behaviour as a negative form of dierence. This pattern early as the rst generation. may not hold for other parts of Canada, of course. Food and family, the other strong “I do not view religion as part of the Italian markers of Italian identity described by identity, however, many people in Italy do. No participants are seen as distinctive, but one in my family is very religious. My these are markers that are proudly grandparents grew up in very Roman armed. It would be useful to compare Catholic families back in Italy, but since this pattern of relationship to religion moving to Canada have had very little with other diasporic communities that involvement in religion. They are more come to Canada from countries in which spiritual/superstitious, and do not attend mass, religion is a more public strand of cultural save for the occasional baptism, wedding, or identity. funeral” (Canadian 16). Perhaps the most telling reection of how It seems that relocating to a country in people viewed religion was that, when which the social structure did not reinforce asked what parts of Italian culture they religious practice had a rapid eect on personally related to the most, the behaviour for the rst generation in this overwhelming response was food and family. Other responses indicated that the family. Despite the fact that 75% of rst generation retained more of a participants had earlier agreed that connection to religious practice, but this was religion was part of Italian identity, it was not passed down as strongly to the second not frequently mentioned in response to and third generation. this question. Religion, along with sport, art, or other additional items, was a “Most Italians I know including myself have minority response. In other words, there grown up with Catholic traditions but do not is a recognition of the historical continue to follow them once they enter their late importance of Catholicism, which teen years. Probably due to Vancouver’s large continues to be felt in certain rituals and non-religious population” (Italian- holidays, but it is no longer something that Canadian 26). many people personally espouse. was at the centre of life in the hamlets from answers which distinguished between which pre and post war immigrants originate personal non-belief, and religion as part from. It is part of my identity only through of family traditions. See for example childhood memories of my grandparents and these responses: step grandparents” (Italian 17). “…yes. The Catholic Church is inescapable. Of the self-described "Italians”, 82% I don’t practice, but I will baptize my son— armed the importance of Catholicism it’s intertwined with family traditions” to Italian identity. Among Italian- (Italian-Canadian 19). Canadians, 77% agreed that religion had a signi cant inuence on Italian culture “Religion was important to my family as I and traditions. 54% Canadians agreed, was growing up. I am not religious as an as did all those describing themselves as adult but I still celebrate the religious Other. This means that a total of 75% of holidays as social and cultural events that all participants thought Catholicism was connect me with my heritage” (Italian- a signi cant part of Italian identity. Canadian 9).

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

One possible explanation for this is that The lack of religious identi cation amongst these individuals were born and raised in diaspora Italians in Vancouver may be a form Canada, where institutional religion has of acculturation: identifying as Catholic is little public pro le, and belief is largely a not only a mark of dierence from the This question was designed to test “passionate” might be mentioned in private aair. Some answers hinted that secular mainstream, it may be perceived as how participants think they are a positive response, along with this social context inuenced behaviour as a negative form of dierence. This pattern perceived, as a cultural or ethnic clearly positive ones like “good early as the rst generation. may not hold for other parts of Canada, of group, in Canada. Of course, the food” and “strong family values”. A course. Food and family, the other strong answers are themselves only the “negative” response listed only “I do not view religion as part of the Italian markers of Italian identity described by perceptions of the participants, and unfavorable characteristics, such as identity, however, many people in Italy do. No participants are seen as distinctive, but may not be an accurate reection of “lazy, slimy, and sly” (Other 7). one in my family is very religious. My these are markers that are proudly how they are actually viewed. The When a participant expressed a lot of grandparents grew up in very Roman armed. It would be useful to compare point of the question was to uncertainty, the response was Catholic families back in Italy, but since this pattern of relationship to religion examine whether there was a link labelled “unsure”. moving to Canada have had very little with other diasporic communities that between positive ideas about social involvement in religion. They are more come to Canada from countries in which perception, and an individual’s own Most interesting was the “mixed” spiritual/superstitious, and do not attend mass, religion is a more public strand of cultural tendency to embrace Italian identity. category of responses. These answers save for the occasional baptism, wedding, or identity. After all, if one believed that such an typically referenced stereotypes, funeral” (Canadian 16). identity was negatively perceived, it especially images popularised in TV Perhaps the most telling reection of how might aect one’s willingness to shows like “Jersey Shore” “Real It seems that relocating to a country in people viewed religion was that, when actively associate with it. What Housewives of New Jersey” and which the social structure did not reinforce asked what parts of Italian culture they emerged from the responses, “The Sopranos”, or lms like “The religious practice had a rapid eect on personally related to the most, the somewhat surprisingly, was that Godfather”. Others alluded to these behaviour for the rst generation in this overwhelming response was food and there was no clear link between stereotypes by mentioning the family. Other responses indicated that the family. Despite the fact that 75% of positive notions of social perception, assumption that all Italians are rst generation retained more of a participants had earlier agreed that and the strength of an individual’s associated with the ma a. Without connection to religious practice, but this was religion was part of Italian identity, it was Italian aliation. exception, individuals who mentioned not passed down as strongly to the second not frequently mentioned in response to these images complained that they and third generation. this question. Religion, along with sport, Responses were analysed and labeled gave an inaccurate and extremely art, or other additional items, was a as one of four categories. “Positive”, negative portrayal of Italians, which “Most Italians I know including myself have minority response. In other words, there “negative”, “mixed”, or “unsure”. aected how the entire ethnicity was grown up with Catholic traditions but do not is a recognition of the historical Of course, these are rough divisions, perceived. However, these responses continue to follow them once they enter their late importance of Catholicism, which and some answers might legitimately also mentioned other well-known teen years. Probably due to Vancouver’s large continues to be felt in certain rituals and be counted in one category rather stereotypes with more positive non-religious population” (Italian- holidays, but it is no longer something that than another. The responses, and the connotations, such as “good cooks”. Canadian 26). many people personally espouse. labels they have been assigned are In a few cases, responses in this available in the Appendix. category simply stated that Canadians A “positive” response was one which had incomplete knowledge of Italians, listed only favorable characteristics, because it was based on stereotypes. or included no clearly unfavorable ones. For example, relatively neutral Only 5.8 % of responses mentioned descriptions such as “loud” or shows or lms by name, and a total

Social Perception of Italian Identity

One possible explanation for this is that The lack of religious identi cation amongst these individuals were born and raised in diaspora Italians in Vancouver may be a form Social Perception of Italian Identity Canada, where institutional religion has of acculturation: identifying as Catholic is little public pro le, and belief is largely a not only a mark of dierence from the This question was designed to test “passionate” might be mentioned in private aair. Some answers hinted that secular mainstream, it may be perceived as how participants think they are a positive response, along with this social context inuenced behaviour as a negative form of dierence. This pattern perceived, as a cultural or ethnic clearly positive ones like “good early as the rst generation. may not hold for other parts of Canada, of group, in Canada. Of course, the food” and “strong family values”. A course. Food and family, the other strong answers are themselves only the “negative” response listed only “I do not view religion as part of the Italian markers of Italian identity described by perceptions of the participants, and unfavorable characteristics, such as identity, however, many people in Italy do. No participants are seen as distinctive, but may not be an accurate reection of “lazy, slimy, and sly” (Other 7). one in my family is very religious. My these are markers that are proudly how they are actually viewed. The When a participant expressed a lot of grandparents grew up in very Roman armed. It would be useful to compare point of the question was to uncertainty, the response was Catholic families back in Italy, but since this pattern of relationship to religion examine whether there was a link labelled “unsure”. moving to Canada have had very little with other diasporic communities that between positive ideas about social involvement in religion. They are more come to Canada from countries in which perception, and an individual’s own Most interesting was the “mixed” spiritual/superstitious, and do not attend mass, religion is a more public strand of cultural tendency to embrace Italian identity. category of responses. These answers save for the occasional baptism, wedding, or identity. After all, if one believed that such an typically referenced stereotypes, funeral” (Canadian 16). identity was negatively perceived, it especially images popularised in TV Perhaps the most telling reection of how might aect one’s willingness to shows like “Jersey Shore” “Real It seems that relocating to a country in people viewed religion was that, when actively associate with it. What Housewives of New Jersey” and which the social structure did not reinforce asked what parts of Italian culture they emerged from the responses, “The Sopranos”, or lms like “The religious practice had a rapid eect on personally related to the most, the somewhat surprisingly, was that Godfather”. Others alluded to these behaviour for the rst generation in this overwhelming response was food and there was no clear link between stereotypes by mentioning the family. Other responses indicated that the family. Despite the fact that 75% of positive notions of social perception, assumption that all Italians are rst generation retained more of a participants had earlier agreed that and the strength of an individual’s associated with the ma a. Without connection to religious practice, but this was religion was part of Italian identity, it was Italian aliation. exception, individuals who mentioned not passed down as strongly to the second not frequently mentioned in response to these images complained that they and third generation. this question. Religion, along with sport, Responses were analysed and labeled gave an inaccurate and extremely art, or other additional items, was a as one of four categories. “Positive”, negative portrayal of Italians, which “Most Italians I know including myself have minority response. In other words, there “negative”, “mixed”, or “unsure”. aected how the entire ethnicity was grown up with Catholic traditions but do not is a recognition of the historical Of course, these are rough divisions, perceived. However, these responses continue to follow them once they enter their late importance of Catholicism, which and some answers might legitimately also mentioned other well-known teen years. Probably due to Vancouver’s large continues to be felt in certain rituals and be counted in one category rather stereotypes with more positive non-religious population” (Italian- holidays, but it is no longer something that than another. The responses, and the connotations, such as “good cooks”. Canadian 26). many people personally espouse. labels they have been assigned are In a few cases, responses in this available in the Appendix. category simply stated that Canadians A “positive” response was one which had incomplete knowledge of Italians, listed only favorable characteristics, because it was based on stereotypes. or included no clearly unfavorable ones. For example, relatively neutral Only 5.8 % of responses mentioned descriptions such as “loud” or shows or lms by name, and a total

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 20

of 10.6 % that mentioned the ma a, responses in the Italian-Canadian either through a show or directly. group, but the same group also However, while this indicates some contains a larger percentage of awareness of negative stereotypes, negative responses. It appears that the overall results reveal a sense of perceptions of Italian image in con dence. Canada do not have an obvious eect on self-identi cation. The “Positive” category was the largest, at 42% of all responses. The “Mixed” As the chart clearly shows, those category came second, at 33%. who thought Italians had a great “Negative” perceptions accounted for a image in Canada were not mere 14.4%, and “Unsure” responses concentrated in the groups who comprised just over 8%. self-described as “Italian” or “Italian-Canadian”. There is a higher As the chart clearly shows, those percentage of positive responses in the who thought Italians had a great Italian-Canadian group, but the same image in Canada were not group also contains a larger percentage concentrated in the groups who of negative responses. It appears that self-described as “Italian” or perceptions of Italian image in “Italian-Canadian”. There is a Canada do not have an obvious higher percentage of positive eect on self-identi cation. This question was designed to test “passionate” might be mentioned in how participants think they are a positive response, along with perceived, as a cultural or ethnic clearly positive ones like “good group, in Canada. Of course, the food” and “strong family values”. A answers are themselves only the “negative” response listed only perceptions of the participants, and unfavorable characteristics, such as may not be an accurate reection of “lazy, slimy, and sly” (Other 7). how they are actually viewed. The When a participant expressed a lot of point of the question was to uncertainty, the response was examine whether there was a link labelled “unsure”. between positive ideas about social perception, and an individual’s own Most interesting was the “mixed” tendency to embrace Italian identity. category of responses. These answers After all, if one believed that such an typically referenced stereotypes, identity was negatively perceived, it especially images popularised in TV might aect one’s willingness to shows like “Jersey Shore” “Real actively associate with it. What Housewives of New Jersey” and emerged from the responses, “The Sopranos”, or lms like “The somewhat surprisingly, was that Godfather”. Others alluded to these there was no clear link between stereotypes by mentioning the positive notions of social perception, assumption that all Italians are and the strength of an individual’s associated with the ma a. Without Italian aliation. exception, individuals who mentioned these images complained that they Responses were analysed and labeled gave an inaccurate and extremely as one of four categories. “Positive”, negative portrayal of Italians, which “negative”, “mixed”, or “unsure”. aected how the entire ethnicity was Of course, these are rough divisions, perceived. However, these responses and some answers might legitimately also mentioned other well-known be counted in one category rather stereotypes with more positive than another. The responses, and the connotations, such as “good cooks”. labels they have been assigned are In a few cases, responses in this available in the Appendix. category simply stated that Canadians A “positive” response was one which had incomplete knowledge of Italians, listed only favorable characteristics, because it was based on stereotypes. or included no clearly unfavorable ones. For example, relatively neutral Only 5.8 % of responses mentioned descriptions such as “loud” or shows or lms by name, and a total

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver of 10.6 % that mentioned the ma a, responses in the Italian-Canadian either through a show or directly. group, but the same group also However, while this indicates some contains a larger percentage of awareness of negative stereotypes, negative responses. It appears that Question 24: Do you, as Italians quite distinct. However, the overall results reveal a sense of perceptions of Italian image in someone of Italian descent, the two indicators were often con dence. Canada do not have an obvious feel di erent/distinct from linked, as many individuals said eect on self-identi cation. other Canadians? How and that strong family bonds were The “Positive” category was the largest, why? cultivated through food, at regular at 42% of all responses. The “Mixed” As the chart clearly shows, those family dinners. category came second, at 33%. who thought Italians had a great This question was intended to “Negative” perceptions accounted for a image in Canada were not measure the extent to which The negative responses were even mere 14.4%, and “Unsure” responses concentrated in the groups who Italian identity made an individual more interesting. Some said that comprised just over 8%. self-described as “Italian” or feel distinct from other Canadians. there was no distinct Canadian “Italian-Canadian”. There is a higher Also, we were looking at whether culture to feel dierent from. As As the chart clearly shows, those percentage of positive responses in the the strength of Italian aliation, one participant put it “Canadian who thought Italians had a great Italian-Canadian group, but the same (in other words, those who culture is multicultural with no serious image in Canada were not group also contains a larger percentage self-identi ed primarily as Italian) distinct Canadian culture” (Italian 5). concentrated in the groups who of negative responses. It appears that made people feel more distinct. In fact, even those who gave self-described as “Italian” or perceptions of Italian image in The results were fascinating. positive responses to this question “Italian-Canadian”. There is a Canada do not have an obvious There were a total of 40 negative cited similar sentiments: “I feel we higher percentage of positive eect on self-identi cation. responses, and 64 positive ones, are all di erent. Canada is very which means that 61% of multicultural” (Italian-Canadian 3). participants perceived themselves It bears noting here that Canada as dierent in some way from other was not always perceived this way. Canadians. The robustly Anglo-Saxon culture of the nineteenth century persisted The reasons people gave for the into the 1950s, recorded by positive or negative answer revealed another Vancouverite, the poet very interesting patterns. Amongst Earle Birney in “Anglo-Saxon those who said they felt dierent, Street”. Indeed, this environment two reasons were most frequently may account for the reported cited: food and family. Food was a reluctance of some second relatively small source of dierence; generation Italians to pass on typically individuals said they had a language and other distinctively “distinct love of food”(Italian-Canadian Italian traits. 50) or that they ate “way better food” (Italian-Canadian 15) than other This relatively recent perception of Canadians. More signi cant was Canadian culture as composed of the mention of family. Strong dierence, and lacking a deep set of family ties, and the priority of values and traditions, is precisely spending social time with family what critics3 of multiculturalism before friends were cited as fear. One might wonder if it is this dierences in attitude that made very openness that encourages

people to emphasize their ethnic “I feel as though there isn’t actually and cultural dierence, rather one distinct “Canadian” culture, and than rooting themselves in a we are all made up of our own Canadian civic identity. However, cultures. I feel distinct as an Italian the “mosaic” of Canadian society, because we have traditions and values composed of many immigrant that are not shared by all Canadians. I groups, was itself a source of civic feel like our ties to family are di erent solidarity. than other Canadians, for example” (Italian- Canadian 43). When explaining why they did not feel dierent from other Canadians, “I feel the same as other Canadians. I live individuals frequently said that they in a place surrounded by immigrants and saw themselves as just one cultural their descendants. I see great similarities group among a nation of immigrant between our experiences” groups. Paradoxically, this very same (Italian-Canadian 9). idea was cited by those who said they did feel distinct. Here is a What these responses indicate is a sample of the most detailed larger sense of who and what we are responses on this matter, both as a country. As a nation of positive and negative. immigrants, we belong to smaller ethnic groups, but share the larger “No because I feel that all of my friends experience of being Canadians. and co-workers are from their own di erent Various immigrant communities and distinct cultures” (Canadian 14). have their own particular stories of what drove them to leave their “We are all di erent and the same. original countries and arrive here, Canadians with di erent heritages. I but it is this very experience of work with the Polish community who are departure and arrival in family proud to be Canadian and proud to have history that so many of us share. a Polish heritage. I enjoy listening to Contrary to the fear of how proud they feel to be from a Polish fragmentation, it is this very thing background. I hope they feel the same that may be a central part of national towards me” (Canadian 16). identity and communal solidarity. This question was designed to test “passionate” might be mentioned in how participants think they are a positive response, along with perceived, as a cultural or ethnic clearly positive ones like “good group, in Canada. Of course, the food” and “strong family values”. A answers are themselves only the “negative” response listed only perceptions of the participants, and unfavorable characteristics, such as may not be an accurate reection of “lazy, slimy, and sly” (Other 7). how they are actually viewed. The When a participant expressed a lot of point of the question was to uncertainty, the response was examine whether there was a link labelled “unsure”. between positive ideas about social perception, and an individual’s own Most interesting was the “mixed” tendency to embrace Italian identity. category of responses. These answers After all, if one believed that such an typically referenced stereotypes, identity was negatively perceived, it especially images popularised in TV might aect one’s willingness to shows like “Jersey Shore” “Real actively associate with it. What Housewives of New Jersey” and emerged from the responses, “The Sopranos”, or lms like “The somewhat surprisingly, was that Godfather”. Others alluded to these there was no clear link between stereotypes by mentioning the positive notions of social perception, assumption that all Italians are and the strength of an individual’s associated with the ma a. Without Italian aliation. exception, individuals who mentioned these images complained that they Responses were analysed and labeled gave an inaccurate and extremely as one of four categories. “Positive”, negative portrayal of Italians, which “negative”, “mixed”, or “unsure”. aected how the entire ethnicity was Of course, these are rough divisions, perceived. However, these responses and some answers might legitimately also mentioned other well-known be counted in one category rather stereotypes with more positive than another. The responses, and the connotations, such as “good cooks”. labels they have been assigned are In a few cases, responses in this available in the Appendix. category simply stated that Canadians A “positive” response was one which had incomplete knowledge of Italians, listed only favorable characteristics, because it was based on stereotypes. or included no clearly unfavorable ones. For example, relatively neutral Only 5.8 % of responses mentioned descriptions such as “loud” or shows or lms by name, and a total

Difference of 10.6 % that mentioned the ma a, responses in the Italian-Canadian either through a show or directly. group, but the same group also Difference However, while this indicates some contains a larger percentage of awareness of negative stereotypes, negative responses. It appears that Question 24: Do you, as Italians quite distinct. However, the overall results reveal a sense of perceptions of Italian image in someone of Italian descent, the two indicators were often con dence. Canada do not have an obvious feel di erent/distinct from linked, as many individuals said eect on self-identi cation. other Canadians? How and that strong family bonds were The “Positive” category was the largest, why? cultivated through food, at regular at 42% of all responses. The “Mixed” As the chart clearly shows, those family dinners. category came second, at 33%. who thought Italians had a great This question was intended to “Negative” perceptions accounted for a image in Canada were not measure the extent to which The negative responses were even mere 14.4%, and “Unsure” responses concentrated in the groups who Italian identity made an individual more interesting. Some said that comprised just over 8%. self-described as “Italian” or feel distinct from other Canadians. there was no distinct Canadian “Italian-Canadian”. There is a higher Also, we were looking at whether culture to feel dierent from. As As the chart clearly shows, those percentage of positive responses in the the strength of Italian aliation, one participant put it “Canadian who thought Italians had a great Italian-Canadian group, but the same (in other words, those who culture is multicultural with no serious image in Canada were not group also contains a larger percentage self-identi ed primarily as Italian) distinct Canadian culture” (Italian 5). concentrated in the groups who of negative responses. It appears that made people feel more distinct. In fact, even those who gave self-described as “Italian” or perceptions of Italian image in The results were fascinating. positive responses to this question “Italian-Canadian”. There is a Canada do not have an obvious There were a total of 40 negative cited similar sentiments: “I feel we higher percentage of positive eect on self-identi cation. responses, and 64 positive ones, are all di erent. Canada is very which means that 61% of multicultural” (Italian-Canadian 3). participants perceived themselves It bears noting here that Canada as dierent in some way from other was not always perceived this way. Canadians. The robustly Anglo-Saxon culture of the nineteenth century persisted The reasons people gave for the into the 1950s, recorded by positive or negative answer revealed another Vancouverite, the poet very interesting patterns. Amongst Earle Birney in “Anglo-Saxon those who said they felt dierent, Street”. Indeed, this environment two reasons were most frequently may account for the reported cited: food and family. Food was a reluctance of some second relatively small source of dierence; generation Italians to pass on typically individuals said they had a language and other distinctively “distinct love of food”(Italian-Canadian Italian traits. 50) or that they ate “way better food” (Italian-Canadian 15) than other This relatively recent perception of Canadians. More signi cant was Canadian culture as composed of the mention of family. Strong dierence, and lacking a deep set of family ties, and the priority of values and traditions, is precisely spending social time with family what critics3 of multiculturalism before friends were cited as fear. One might wonder if it is this dierences in attitude that made very openness that encourages

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 22

people to emphasize their ethnic “I feel as though there isn’t actually and cultural dierence, rather one distinct “Canadian” culture, and than rooting themselves in a we are all made up of our own Canadian civic identity. However, cultures. I feel distinct as an Italian the “mosaic” of Canadian society, because we have traditions and values composed of many immigrant that are not shared by all Canadians. I groups, was itself a source of civic feel like our ties to family are di erent solidarity. than other Canadians, for example” (Italian- Canadian 43). When explaining why they did not feel dierent from other Canadians, “I feel the same as other Canadians. I live individuals frequently said that they in a place surrounded by immigrants and saw themselves as just one cultural their descendants. I see great similarities group among a nation of immigrant between our experiences” groups. Paradoxically, this very same (Italian-Canadian 9). idea was cited by those who said they did feel distinct. Here is a What these responses indicate is a sample of the most detailed larger sense of who and what we are responses on this matter, both as a country. As a nation of positive and negative. immigrants, we belong to smaller ethnic groups, but share the larger “No because I feel that all of my friends experience of being Canadians. and co-workers are from their own di erent Various immigrant communities and distinct cultures” (Canadian 14). have their own particular stories of what drove them to leave their “We are all di erent and the same. original countries and arrive here, Canadians with di erent heritages. I but it is this very experience of work with the Polish community who are departure and arrival in family proud to be Canadian and proud to have history that so many of us share. a Polish heritage. I enjoy listening to Contrary to the fear of how proud they feel to be from a Polish fragmentation, it is this very thing background. I hope they feel the same that may be a central part of national towards me” (Canadian 16). identity and communal solidarity. Question 24: Do you, as Italians quite distinct. However, someone of Italian descent, the two indicators were often feel di erent/distinct from linked, as many individuals said other Canadians? How and that strong family bonds were why? cultivated through food, at regular family dinners. This question was intended to measure the extent to which The negative responses were even Italian identity made an individual more interesting. Some said that feel distinct from other Canadians. there was no distinct Canadian Also, we were looking at whether culture to feel dierent from. As the strength of Italian aliation, one participant put it “Canadian (in other words, those who culture is multicultural with no serious self-identi ed primarily as Italian) distinct Canadian culture” (Italian 5). made people feel more distinct. In fact, even those who gave The results were fascinating. positive responses to this question There were a total of 40 negative cited similar sentiments: “I feel we responses, and 64 positive ones, are all di erent. Canada is very which means that 61% of multicultural” (Italian-Canadian 3). participants perceived themselves It bears noting here that Canada as dierent in some way from other was not always perceived this way. Canadians. The robustly Anglo-Saxon culture of the nineteenth century persisted The reasons people gave for the into the 1950s, recorded by positive or negative answer revealed another Vancouverite, the poet very interesting patterns. Amongst Earle Birney in “Anglo-Saxon those who said they felt dierent, Street”. Indeed, this environment two reasons were most frequently may account for the reported cited: food and family. Food was a reluctance of some second relatively small source of dierence; generation Italians to pass on typically individuals said they had a language and other distinctively “distinct love of food”(Italian-Canadian Italian traits. 50) or that they ate “way better food” (Italian-Canadian 15) than other This relatively recent perception of Canadians. More signi cant was Canadian culture as composed of the mention of family. Strong dierence, and lacking a deep set of family ties, and the priority of values and traditions, is precisely spending social time with family what critics3 of multiculturalism before friends were cited as fear. One might wonder if it is this dierences in attitude that made very openness that encourages

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver people to emphasize their ethnic “I feel as though there isn’t actually and cultural dierence, rather one distinct “Canadian” culture, and than rooting themselves in a we are all made up of our own In understanding what behaviours out with other Italians have a Canadian civic identity. However, cultures. I feel distinct as an Italian are linked to a strong sense of stronger sense of their cultural the “mosaic” of Canadian society, because we have traditions and values cultural identity, participants were heritage? Who tends to place composed of many immigrant that are not shared by all Canadians. I asked a series of questions designed importance on having other Italians groups, was itself a source of civic feel like our ties to family are di erent to examine their social connections. to socialise with? Answers were solidarity. than other Canadians, for example” The questions related to business, categorised as (Y) for those who had (Italian- Canadian 43). friendships, and attending Italian social Italian contacts, (N) for those When explaining why they did not themed events. who said they did not, or (F) for feel dierent from other Canadians, “I feel the same as other Canadians. I live those who had very few, or only individuals frequently said that they in a place surrounded by immigrants and Question 25: Do you have any family. In addition, responses may saw themselves as just one cultural their descendants. I see great similarities Italians in your social network? have been given a second letter, group among a nation of immigrant between our experiences” How did you meet them? Is this either Y or N, for those who groups. Paradoxically, this very same (Italian-Canadian 9). important to you? Why? expressed a clear opinion about the idea was cited by those who said importance —or lack thereof— of they did feel distinct. Here is a What these responses indicate is a This question was intended to test having Italian friends. So a response sample of the most detailed larger sense of who and what we are whether a robust sense of Italian coded (Y/N) would be someone responses on this matter, both as a country. As a nation of identity was connected to patterns of who has social contacts, but does not positive and negative. immigrants, we belong to smaller socialising. Do people who hang think this is particularly valuable. ethnic groups, but share the larger “No because I feel that all of my friends experience of being Canadians. and co-workers are from their own di erent Various immigrant communities and distinct cultures” (Canadian 14). have their own particular stories of what drove them to leave their “We are all di erent and the same. original countries and arrive here, Canadians with di erent heritages. I but it is this very experience of work with the Polish community who are departure and arrival in family proud to be Canadian and proud to have history that so many of us share. a Polish heritage. I enjoy listening to Contrary to the fear of how proud they feel to be from a Polish fragmentation, it is this very thing 3 See for example Bissoon- background. I hope they feel the same that may be a central part of national dath, Neil. (2002) Selling towards me” (Canadian 16). identity and communal solidarity. Illusions: The Cult of Multiculturalism in Canada. “I feel like almost all Canadians have some ancestry based in Toronto: Penguin Canada, emigration and immigration. Even First Nations peoples have and Malik, Kenan. (2006) been extremely displaced because of the Canadian government. “The Failures of Multicul- Because of this, I feel more a part of Canadian culture. I am turalism” in The Secular In general, answers followed the positive responses were a majority descended from immigrants, like many here, and it helps me State and Islam in Europe, pattern we predicted. Most of those in (57%), while 27% had a few or only Ed. Kurt Almquist. find solidarity with my fellow Canadians” the Italian group (76%) had Italian family, and only 14% said they had Engelsberg: Ax:son friends. Among Italian Canadians, none. The Canadian category had a (Italian-Canadian 48). Johnson Foundation.

much lower positive response rate, at social network with other Italians. No, this only 29%, with 45% saying they had a is not important to me. I don’t choose my few, or family only. The Other friends based on their ethnicity” category tracked closer to the Italian (Canadian 20). group, as they did in most other questions, at a 77% positive response It seems clear that there is some rate. correlation between an individual’s sense of cultural identity and their In terms of how much individuals social patterns. In general, those with a valued having Italian friends, all the strong connection to their Italian Italians, with one exception, placed heritage are more likely to have importance on this. For Italian- Italians in their social networks. Canadians, the results were much However, it is unclear which side of more mixed. Among those who had this equation causes the other. Does social contacts, many did not think this being in regular contact with other was very important, while others did. Italians strengthen a personal sense of Similarly, among the ones who Italian identity, or are those people reported few or none, some thought it with a strong sense of cultural was quite important and wished they belonging more likely to attend had Italians in their network. activities and social gatherings where other Italians are present? The answer “I have a couple of Italian friends that I met is unlikely to be one side or the other. through mutual friends. It is not important The two are probably mutually to me, as a good friend is all that matters, reinforcing. Someone with a strong not what their background is” Italian family culture is more likely to (Italian-Canadian 53). attend a Catholic school or soccer event, and when s/he meets other “I really don’t, apart from the ones I see at Italians there, the sense of shared the banquets. It’s not very important, but I identity would be reinforced. would LOVE to have Italian friends” (Italian-Canadian 3). Many individuals throughout the survey indicated that the family is a Unsurprisingly, the Canadians, who as primary source of social contact, and a category had the weakest connection comes before friends. It was also their to Italian heritage throughout the main connection to cultural heritage survey, placed less importance on this. and traditions, more than peer groups. Maintaining contact with extended “No, it’s not important. No one cares” family —including in Italy— was a (Canadian 3). priority and provided an ongoing link with the country and its language. “Outside of my family, no I personally do Several participants commented that not. My father’s generation had more of a their parents’ and grandparents’

and many of these responses thought participation, with only one answering the very premise of the question was in the negative. distasteful. They stressed that good Italian Day on the Drive was the most business was what mattered, not who frequently mentioned activity, followed own or ran it. However the by watching soccer in Italian cafes, and “Conditional” category was quite events at the Italian Cultural Centre. interesting. These were people who Multiple events, not counting stores, cafes, generally would not seek out Italian and restaurants, were listed by 29% of businesses except in certain Italians, and 40% of Italian Canadians, but circumstances; these circumstances only 12% of Canadians, and 11% of the were usually the desire to eat Italian Others. Five individuals were actually food. Many of these respondents said involved in organising cultural activities, that while in general they would not and unsurprisingly, they were three be speci cally interested in Italian Italians and two Italian-Canadians. This run businesses, bakeries, delis, and pattern of responses con rms that strong restaurants were an exception. This cultural aliation is connected to indicates that food remains one of the participation in cultural events. However, strongest links to cultural identity, the answers do not indicate whether bound up as it is with family, people participate in events because they tradition, and memory. It may in fact already a strong connection to their be among the last markers, surviving Italian heritage, or whether than most others. connection is at least in part fostered by regular participation. At the very least, it Question 28: Do you participate seems safe to conclude that regular in other Italian-themed events? involvement in cultural activities would Which ones? strengthen a connection to Italian identity. The results here con rmed our In this respect, organising activities working hypothesis. We expected —whether of the private social variety, that individuals who strongly such as picnics and banquets, or more identi ed as Italian would be more public events, like concerts and festivals— involved in Italian-speci c events. is a key part of nurturing a cultural This was clear, with 82.3% of Italians community. The Italian Cultural Centre and 79.6% of Italian-Canadians is already active in doing this, and will reporting attending such events. By have to nd ways to ensure that the contrast, only 41.6% of Canadians younger generation is engaged, in order did. Eight of the nine individuals in to ensure they have a sense of belonging. the “Other” category also reported Question 24: Do you, as Italians quite distinct. However, someone of Italian descent, the two indicators were often feel di erent/distinct from linked, as many individuals said other Canadians? How and that strong family bonds were why? cultivated through food, at regular family dinners. This question was intended to measure the extent to which The negative responses were even Italian identity made an individual more interesting. Some said that feel distinct from other Canadians. there was no distinct Canadian Also, we were looking at whether culture to feel dierent from. As the strength of Italian aliation, one participant put it “Canadian (in other words, those who culture is multicultural with no serious self-identi ed primarily as Italian) distinct Canadian culture” (Italian 5). made people feel more distinct. In fact, even those who gave The results were fascinating. positive responses to this question There were a total of 40 negative cited similar sentiments: “I feel we responses, and 64 positive ones, are all di erent. Canada is very which means that 61% of multicultural” (Italian-Canadian 3). participants perceived themselves It bears noting here that Canada as dierent in some way from other was not always perceived this way. Canadians. The robustly Anglo-Saxon culture of the nineteenth century persisted The reasons people gave for the into the 1950s, recorded by positive or negative answer revealed another Vancouverite, the poet very interesting patterns. Amongst Earle Birney in “Anglo-Saxon those who said they felt dierent, Street”. Indeed, this environment two reasons were most frequently may account for the reported cited: food and family. Food was a reluctance of some second relatively small source of dierence; generation Italians to pass on typically individuals said they had a language and other distinctively “distinct love of food”(Italian-Canadian Italian traits. 50) or that they ate “way better food” (Italian-Canadian 15) than other This relatively recent perception of Canadians. More signi cant was Canadian culture as composed of the mention of family. Strong dierence, and lacking a deep set of family ties, and the priority of values and traditions, is precisely spending social time with family what critics3 of multiculturalism before friends were cited as fear. One might wonder if it is this dierences in attitude that made very openness that encourages

Social Bonds people to emphasize their ethnic “I feel as though there isn’t actually Social Bonds and cultural dierence, rather one distinct “Canadian” culture, and than rooting themselves in a we are all made up of our own In understanding what behaviours out with other Italians have a Canadian civic identity. However, cultures. I feel distinct as an Italian are linked to a strong sense of stronger sense of their cultural the “mosaic” of Canadian society, because we have traditions and values cultural identity, participants were heritage? Who tends to place composed of many immigrant that are not shared by all Canadians. I asked a series of questions designed importance on having other Italians groups, was itself a source of civic feel like our ties to family are di erent to examine their social connections. to socialise with? Answers were solidarity. than other Canadians, for example” The questions related to business, categorised as (Y) for those who had (Italian- Canadian 43). friendships, and attending Italian social Italian contacts, (N) for those When explaining why they did not themed events. who said they did not, or (F) for feel dierent from other Canadians, “I feel the same as other Canadians. I live those who had very few, or only individuals frequently said that they in a place surrounded by immigrants and Question 25: Do you have any family. In addition, responses may saw themselves as just one cultural their descendants. I see great similarities Italians in your social network? have been given a second letter, group among a nation of immigrant between our experiences” How did you meet them? Is this either Y or N, for those who groups. Paradoxically, this very same (Italian-Canadian 9). important to you? Why? expressed a clear opinion about the idea was cited by those who said importance —or lack thereof— of they did feel distinct. Here is a What these responses indicate is a This question was intended to test having Italian friends. So a response sample of the most detailed larger sense of who and what we are whether a robust sense of Italian coded (Y/N) would be someone responses on this matter, both as a country. As a nation of identity was connected to patterns of who has social contacts, but does not positive and negative. immigrants, we belong to smaller socialising. Do people who hang think this is particularly valuable. ethnic groups, but share the larger “No because I feel that all of my friends experience of being Canadians. and co-workers are from their own di erent Various immigrant communities and distinct cultures” (Canadian 14). have their own particular stories of what drove them to leave their “We are all di erent and the same. original countries and arrive here, Canadians with di erent heritages. I but it is this very experience of work with the Polish community who are departure and arrival in family proud to be Canadian and proud to have history that so many of us share. a Polish heritage. I enjoy listening to Contrary to the fear of how proud they feel to be from a Polish fragmentation, it is this very thing background. I hope they feel the same that may be a central part of national towards me” (Canadian 16). identity and communal solidarity.

In general, answers followed the positive responses were a majority pattern we predicted. Most of those in (57%), while 27% had a few or only the Italian group (76%) had Italian family, and only 14% said they had friends. Among Italian Canadians, none. The Canadian category had a

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and many of these responses thought participation, with only one answering the very premise of the question was in the negative. distasteful. They stressed that good Italian Day on the Drive was the most business was what mattered, not who frequently mentioned activity, followed own or ran it. However the by watching soccer in Italian cafes, and “Conditional” category was quite events at the Italian Cultural Centre. interesting. These were people who Multiple events, not counting stores, cafes, generally would not seek out Italian and restaurants, were listed by 29% of businesses except in certain Italians, and 40% of Italian Canadians, but circumstances; these circumstances only 12% of Canadians, and 11% of the were usually the desire to eat Italian Others. Five individuals were actually food. Many of these respondents said involved in organising cultural activities, that while in general they would not and unsurprisingly, they were three be speci cally interested in Italian Italians and two Italian-Canadians. This run businesses, bakeries, delis, and pattern of responses con rms that strong restaurants were an exception. This cultural aliation is connected to indicates that food remains one of the participation in cultural events. However, strongest links to cultural identity, the answers do not indicate whether bound up as it is with family, people participate in events because they tradition, and memory. It may in fact already a strong connection to their be among the last markers, surviving Italian heritage, or whether than most others. connection is at least in part fostered by regular participation. At the very least, it Question 28: Do you participate seems safe to conclude that regular in other Italian-themed events? involvement in cultural activities would Which ones? strengthen a connection to Italian identity. The results here con rmed our In this respect, organising activities working hypothesis. We expected —whether of the private social variety, that individuals who strongly such as picnics and banquets, or more identi ed as Italian would be more public events, like concerts and festivals— involved in Italian-speci c events. is a key part of nurturing a cultural This was clear, with 82.3% of Italians community. The Italian Cultural Centre and 79.6% of Italian-Canadians is already active in doing this, and will reporting attending such events. By have to nd ways to ensure that the contrast, only 41.6% of Canadians younger generation is engaged, in order did. Eight of the nine individuals in to ensure they have a sense of belonging. the “Other” category also reported In understanding what behaviours out with other Italians have a are linked to a strong sense of stronger sense of their cultural cultural identity, participants were heritage? Who tends to place asked a series of questions designed importance on having other Italians to examine their social connections. to socialise with? Answers were The questions related to business, categorised as (Y) for those who had friendships, and attending Italian social Italian contacts, (N) for those themed events. who said they did not, or (F) for those who had very few, or only Question 25: Do you have any family. In addition, responses may Italians in your social network? have been given a second letter, How did you meet them? Is this either Y or N, for those who important to you? Why? expressed a clear opinion about the importance —or lack thereof— of This question was intended to test having Italian friends. So a response whether a robust sense of Italian coded (Y/N) would be someone identity was connected to patterns of who has social contacts, but does not socialising. Do people who hang think this is particularly valuable.

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

and many of these responses thought participation, with only one answering the very premise of the question was in the negative. distasteful. They stressed that good Italian Day on the Drive was the most business was what mattered, not who frequently mentioned activity, followed own or ran it. However the by watching soccer in Italian cafes, and “Conditional” category was quite events at the Italian Cultural Centre. interesting. These were people who Multiple events, not counting stores, cafes, generally would not seek out Italian and restaurants, were listed by 29% of businesses except in certain Italians, and 40% of Italian Canadians, but circumstances; these circumstances only 12% of Canadians, and 11% of the were usually the desire to eat Italian Others. Five individuals were actually food. Many of these respondents said involved in organising cultural activities, that while in general they would not and unsurprisingly, they were three be speci cally interested in Italian Italians and two Italian-Canadians. This run businesses, bakeries, delis, and pattern of responses con rms that strong restaurants were an exception. This cultural aliation is connected to indicates that food remains one of the participation in cultural events. However, strongest links to cultural identity, the answers do not indicate whether bound up as it is with family, people participate in events because they tradition, and memory. It may in fact already a strong connection to their be among the last markers, surviving Italian heritage, or whether than most others. connection is at least in part fostered by regular participation. At the very least, it Question 28: Do you participate seems safe to conclude that regular in other Italian-themed events? involvement in cultural activities would Which ones? strengthen a connection to Italian identity. The results here con rmed our In this respect, organising activities working hypothesis. We expected —whether of the private social variety, that individuals who strongly such as picnics and banquets, or more identi ed as Italian would be more public events, like concerts and festivals— involved in Italian-speci c events. is a key part of nurturing a cultural This was clear, with 82.3% of Italians community. The Italian Cultural Centre and 79.6% of Italian-Canadians is already active in doing this, and will reporting attending such events. By have to nd ways to ensure that the contrast, only 41.6% of Canadians younger generation is engaged, in order did. Eight of the nine individuals in to ensure they have a sense of belonging. the “Other” category also reported In understanding what behaviours out with other Italians have a are linked to a strong sense of stronger sense of their cultural cultural identity, participants were heritage? Who tends to place asked a series of questions designed importance on having other Italians to examine their social connections. to socialise with? Answers were The questions related to business, categorised as (Y) for those who had friendships, and attending Italian social Italian contacts, (N) for those themed events. who said they did not, or (F) for those who had very few, or only Question 25: Do you have any family. In addition, responses may Italians in your social network? have been given a second letter, How did you meet them? Is this either Y or N, for those who important to you? Why? expressed a clear opinion about the importance —or lack thereof— of This question was intended to test having Italian friends. So a response whether a robust sense of Italian coded (Y/N) would be someone identity was connected to patterns of who has social contacts, but does not socialising. Do people who hang think this is particularly valuable.

Social Bonds much lower positive response rate, at social network with other Italians. No, this generation seemed to have more “mainstream”, the more immediate only 29%, with 45% saying they had a is not important to me. I don’t choose my robust Italian networks. need for an ethno-cultural community few, or family only. The Other friends based on their ethnicity” would diminish. This hypothesis could category tracked closer to the Italian (Canadian 20). “I don’t have many Italians in my social be tested by comparing the social group, as they did in most other network. I’d say my parents and patterns of the Italian community to questions, at a 77% positive response It seems clear that there is some grandparents have many Italian friends other immigrant communities of rate. correlation between an individual’s through their Italian Centre and through similar age. However, there is still a sense of cultural identity and their their church. I’d really like to have a bigger desire for cultural identity among third In terms of how much individuals social patterns. In general, those with a Italian network but I’m not sure where I generation Italians in Vancouver. valued having Italian friends, all the strong connection to their Italian would nd people my age. It would really Perhaps this is rooted in the more basic Italians, with one exception, placed heritage are more likely to have be nice to have a social meeting place with human need for belonging and importance on this. For Italian- Italians in their social networks. other Italian Canadians” community, which persists even when Canadians, the results were much However, it is unclear which side of (Italian-Canadian 46). economic vulnerability and language more mixed. Among those who had this equation causes the other. Does or cultural dierence are no longer social contacts, many did not think this being in regular contact with other Some of this might be explained by challenges. was very important, while others did. Italians strengthen a personal sense of church attendance, which has Similarly, among the ones who Italian identity, or are those people declined in the third generation. Question 26: Would you be more reported few or none, some thought it with a strong sense of cultural However there are other sources of likely to patronize a business if it was quite important and wished they belonging more likely to attend social connection, such as the various were run or owned by Italians? had Italians in their network. activities and social gatherings where Italian societies and associations in This question was part of a series of other Italians are present? The answer Vancouver, which were started and questions designed to test how much “I have a couple of Italian friends that I met is unlikely to be one side or the other. supported by these earlier generations. third generation Italians seek out other through mutual friends. It is not important The two are probably mutually One possible explanation for this may Italians, for business, cultural activities, to me, as a good friend is all that matters, reinforcing. Someone with a strong be that patterns of ethnic networking and friendships. It would seem not what their background is” Italian family culture is more likely to are related to a sense of vulnerability intuitive that a pattern of regular (Italian-Canadian 53). attend a Catholic school or soccer or “otherness”, common to new contact with other Italians would event, and when s/he meets other immigrant communities. Arriving reinforce a sense of Italian identity. “I really don’t, apart from the ones I see at Italians there, the sense of shared with few economic resources, language With regard to patronising Italian the banquets. It’s not very important, but I identity would be reinforced. gaps, and some sense of homesickness, businesses, some Italians (58%) and would LOVE to have Italian friends” rst generation immigrants may be Italian Canadians (38%) indicated an (Italian-Canadian 3). Many individuals throughout the more likely to seek each other out, and interest in doing so. Those who survey indicated that the family is a even settle in the same neighborhoods. described themselves as Canadians Unsurprisingly, the Canadians, who as primary source of social contact, and Shared language, holidays, food, and were much less likely to— at only a category had the weakest connection comes before friends. It was also their even economic support would be 25%. There were three categories we to Italian heritage throughout the main connection to cultural heritage among the bene ts of this pattern of used to label responses: “Yes”, “No”, survey, placed less importance on this. and traditions, more than peer groups. association. The second generation and “Conditional”. The “Yes” Maintaining contact with extended would bene t from this clustering category were responses that clearly “No, it’s not important. No one cares” family —including in Italy— was a among their parents’ generation, indicated a willingness to seek out (Canadian 3). priority and provided an ongoing link meeting many of their children as a Italian businesses, or at least that they with the country and its language. result. However, as a community would be more interested in a business “Outside of my family, no I personally do Several participants commented that becomes less distinct, more if it were run by Italians. The “No” not. My father’s generation had more of a their parents’ and grandparents’ economically successful, and more category requires little explanation,

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 26

and many of these responses thought participation, with only one answering the very premise of the question was in the negative. distasteful. They stressed that good Italian Day on the Drive was the most business was what mattered, not who frequently mentioned activity, followed own or ran it. However the by watching soccer in Italian cafes, and “Conditional” category was quite events at the Italian Cultural Centre. interesting. These were people who Multiple events, not counting stores, cafes, generally would not seek out Italian and restaurants, were listed by 29% of businesses except in certain Italians, and 40% of Italian Canadians, but circumstances; these circumstances only 12% of Canadians, and 11% of the were usually the desire to eat Italian Others. Five individuals were actually food. Many of these respondents said involved in organising cultural activities, that while in general they would not and unsurprisingly, they were three be speci cally interested in Italian Italians and two Italian-Canadians. This run businesses, bakeries, delis, and pattern of responses con rms that strong restaurants were an exception. This cultural aliation is connected to indicates that food remains one of the participation in cultural events. However, strongest links to cultural identity, the answers do not indicate whether bound up as it is with family, people participate in events because they tradition, and memory. It may in fact already a strong connection to their be among the last markers, surviving Italian heritage, or whether than most others. connection is at least in part fostered by regular participation. At the very least, it Question 28: Do you participate seems safe to conclude that regular in other Italian-themed events? involvement in cultural activities would Which ones? strengthen a connection to Italian identity. The results here con rmed our In this respect, organising activities working hypothesis. We expected —whether of the private social variety, that individuals who strongly such as picnics and banquets, or more identi ed as Italian would be more public events, like concerts and festivals— involved in Italian-speci c events. is a key part of nurturing a cultural This was clear, with 82.3% of Italians community. The Italian Cultural Centre and 79.6% of Italian-Canadians is already active in doing this, and will reporting attending such events. By have to nd ways to ensure that the contrast, only 41.6% of Canadians younger generation is engaged, in order did. Eight of the nine individuals in to ensure they have a sense of belonging. the “Other” category also reported In understanding what behaviours out with other Italians have a are linked to a strong sense of stronger sense of their cultural cultural identity, participants were heritage? Who tends to place asked a series of questions designed importance on having other Italians to examine their social connections. to socialise with? Answers were The questions related to business, categorised as (Y) for those who had friendships, and attending Italian social Italian contacts, (N) for those themed events. who said they did not, or (F) for those who had very few, or only Question 25: Do you have any family. In addition, responses may Italians in your social network? have been given a second letter, How did you meet them? Is this either Y or N, for those who important to you? Why? expressed a clear opinion about the importance —or lack thereof— of This question was intended to test having Italian friends. So a response whether a robust sense of Italian coded (Y/N) would be someone identity was connected to patterns of who has social contacts, but does not socialising. Do people who hang think this is particularly valuable.

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver and many of these responses thought participation, with only one answering the very premise of the question was in the negative. distasteful. They stressed that good Italian Day on the Drive was the most business was what mattered, not who frequently mentioned activity, followed Question 20: To what extent do 9 (8.6%) of participants indicated own or ran it. However the by watching soccer in Italian cafes, and you feel it is important to they thought preserving Italian “Conditional” category was quite events at the Italian Cultural Centre. preserve your Italian identity? identity was unimportant. 12 interesting. These were people who Multiple events, not counting stores, cafes, Please comment on any (11.5%) thought that it was generally would not seek out Italian and restaurants, were listed by 29% of particular activities or practices somewhat important. Answers in businesses except in certain Italians, and 40% of Italian Canadians, but you think are useful in doing this category displayed an interest in circumstances; these circumstances only 12% of Canadians, and 11% of the this, and whether you engage in maintaining some parts of what had were usually the desire to eat Italian Others. Five individuals were actually any of them yourself. been passed down to them, such as food. Many of these respondents said involved in organising cultural activities, family values, which did not that while in general they would not and unsurprisingly, they were three The extent to which individuals necessarily require Italian cultural be speci cally interested in Italian Italians and two Italian-Canadians. This were interested in preserving their labeling. Others wished to pass the run businesses, bakeries, delis, and pattern of responses con rms that strong identity was a central area of interest heritage on to children, but were restaurants were an exception. This cultural aliation is connected to in this report, as one of the unsure of how to do this. The rest of indicates that food remains one of the participation in cultural events. However, hypotheses was that 3rd generation the participants 80 (76.9%) strongest links to cultural identity, the answers do not indicate whether Italian-Canadians have a stronger expressed strong agreement with the bound up as it is with family, people participate in events because they interest in cultural activities and idea that preserving Italian identity tradition, and memory. It may in fact already a strong connection to their identity preservation than perhaps was important. Among the methods be among the last markers, surviving Italian heritage, or whether than their parents did. In general, the they mentioned were food, social most others. connection is at least in part fostered by results supported this notion. Only gatherings, and language. regular participation. At the very least, it Question 28: Do you participate seems safe to conclude that regular in other Italian-themed events? involvement in cultural activities would Which ones? strengthen a connection to Italian identity. The results here con rmed our In this respect, organising activities working hypothesis. We expected —whether of the private social variety, that individuals who strongly such as picnics and banquets, or more identi ed as Italian would be more public events, like concerts and festivals— involved in Italian-speci c events. is a key part of nurturing a cultural This was clear, with 82.3% of Italians community. The Italian Cultural Centre and 79.6% of Italian-Canadians is already active in doing this, and will reporting attending such events. By have to nd ways to ensure that the contrast, only 41.6% of Canadians younger generation is engaged, in order did. Eight of the nine individuals in to ensure they have a sense of belonging. the “Other” category also reported

Food was a vehicle for maintaining a holiday baking were foods that link, not only to Italian culture in individuals wanted to be able to general, but family traditions in create for themselves and their particular. “Nonna’s pasta sauce” or children. The link between food and

memory is double. Not only does important to me and I would like to master it, cooking like grandma preserve her even if only at the conversational level. Crotch- memory for the adult grandchild, eting was taught to me by my grandmother and serving that food provides an I want to pass that on to my grandchildren. opportunity to tell children about the Travelling in Italy with my son and sharing family members who rst came to memories of his grandparents and great-grand- Canada from Italy, and discuss the parents. It is part of who I am, how I view life cultural link with that country. and its meaning” (Italian-Canadian 30).

Social gatherings were primarily about “It is mostly important in that I want my kids maintaining ties with family members, to have the same sense of belonging as I did. and then with other Italians. Events While I am Canadian and I love Canada, it organised by the Italian Cultural was always nice to have another sense of culture Centre were speci cally mentioned, and ties to a di erent tradition. I wish my along with Italian Day, underlining the parents taught me the language from birth, and importance of larger opportunities for I feel it would be a great thing to preserve the Italians to meet and mingle as a com- language for my children. I also hope to pass munity. along my citizenship to allow them to have the extra opportunities that come with an EU Language was perhaps the most fasci- citizenship. To be short — the importance of nating response. It was the most com- preserving my citizenship mainly lies with my monly cited way of preserving identity, future children” (Italian-Canadian 32). with many individuals mentioning that they took lessons as adults, out of “My Nonno passed away a few years ago and a speci c desire to master the language. my Nonna is not getting any younger. I would This suggests that speaking Italian was hate to see their traditions die with them. Even not a speci c goal their second gener- learning the language would preserve the ation parents had for them, supporting memory of being Italian so I can pass it on to the idea that second generation my children and their children, and so on. I do diaspora are in general not overly not want to see such a rich culture disperse interested in cultural preservation and because the people who grew up in Italy are all transmission. gone. I want to learn and perfect my Nonna’s sauce, I want to be able to teach my kids and “I think it is important. I share stories of then their kids. There has to be a way to keep our family with my children so they have a the memories alive. I appreciate the opportuni- sense of where they came from. I am doing ties I have in Canada and living in such an a family tree again to share their history amazing country allows me to keep my Italian with them. Learning the language is roots alive” (Italian-Canadian 42). In understanding what behaviours out with other Italians have a are linked to a strong sense of stronger sense of their cultural cultural identity, participants were heritage? Who tends to place asked a series of questions designed importance on having other Italians to examine their social connections. to socialise with? Answers were The questions related to business, categorised as (Y) for those who had friendships, and attending Italian social Italian contacts, (N) for those themed events. who said they did not, or (F) for those who had very few, or only Question 25: Do you have any family. In addition, responses may Italians in your social network? have been given a second letter, How did you meet them? Is this either Y or N, for those who important to you? Why? expressed a clear opinion about the importance —or lack thereof— of This question was intended to test having Italian friends. So a response whether a robust sense of Italian coded (Y/N) would be someone identity was connected to patterns of who has social contacts, but does not socialising. Do people who hang think this is particularly valuable.

Preserving Italian Identity and many of these responses thought participation, with only one answering the very premise of the question was in the negative. Preserving Italian Identity distasteful. They stressed that good Italian Day on the Drive was the most Question 20: To what extent do 9 (8.6%) of participants indicated business was what mattered, not who frequently mentioned activity, followed you feel it is important to they thought preserving Italian own or ran it. However the by watching soccer in Italian cafes, and preserve your Italian identity? identity was unimportant. 12 “Conditional” category was quite events at the Italian Cultural Centre. Please comment on any (11.5%) thought that it was interesting. These were people who Multiple events, not counting stores, cafes, particular activities or practices somewhat important. Answers in generally would not seek out Italian and restaurants, were listed by 29% of you think are useful in doing this category displayed an interest in businesses except in certain Italians, and 40% of Italian Canadians, but this, and whether you engage in maintaining some parts of what had circumstances; these circumstances only 12% of Canadians, and 11% of the any of them yourself. been passed down to them, such as were usually the desire to eat Italian Others. Five individuals were actually family values, which did not food. Many of these respondents said involved in organising cultural activities, The extent to which individuals necessarily require Italian cultural that while in general they would not and unsurprisingly, they were three were interested in preserving their labeling. Others wished to pass the be speci cally interested in Italian Italians and two Italian-Canadians. This identity was a central area of interest heritage on to children, but were run businesses, bakeries, delis, and pattern of responses con rms that strong in this report, as one of the unsure of how to do this. The rest of restaurants were an exception. This cultural aliation is connected to hypotheses was that 3rd generation the participants 80 (76.9%) indicates that food remains one of the participation in cultural events. However, Italian-Canadians have a stronger expressed strong agreement with the strongest links to cultural identity, the answers do not indicate whether interest in cultural activities and idea that preserving Italian identity bound up as it is with family, people participate in events because they identity preservation than perhaps was important. Among the methods tradition, and memory. It may in fact already a strong connection to their their parents did. In general, the they mentioned were food, social be among the last markers, surviving Italian heritage, or whether than results supported this notion. Only gatherings, and language. most others. connection is at least in part fostered by regular participation. At the very least, it Question 28: Do you participate seems safe to conclude that regular in other Italian-themed events? involvement in cultural activities would Which ones? strengthen a connection to Italian identity. The results here con rmed our In this respect, organising activities working hypothesis. We expected —whether of the private social variety, that individuals who strongly such as picnics and banquets, or more identi ed as Italian would be more public events, like concerts and festivals— involved in Italian-speci c events. is a key part of nurturing a cultural This was clear, with 82.3% of Italians community. The Italian Cultural Centre and 79.6% of Italian-Canadians is already active in doing this, and will reporting attending such events. By have to nd ways to ensure that the contrast, only 41.6% of Canadians younger generation is engaged, in order did. Eight of the nine individuals in to ensure they have a sense of belonging. the “Other” category also reported

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 28

Social gatherings were primarily about “It is mostly important in that I want my kids maintaining ties with family members, to have the same sense of belonging as I did. and then with other Italians. Events While I am Canadian and I love Canada, it organised by the Italian Cultural was always nice to have another sense of culture Centre were speci cally mentioned, and ties to a di erent tradition. I wish my along with Italian Day, underlining the parents taught me the language from birth, and importance of larger opportunities for I feel it would be a great thing to preserve the Italians to meet and mingle as a com- language for my children. I also hope to pass munity. along my citizenship to allow them to have the extra opportunities that come with an EU Language was perhaps the most fasci- citizenship. To be short — the importance of nating response. It was the most com- preserving my citizenship mainly lies with my monly cited way of preserving identity, future children” (Italian-Canadian 32). with many individuals mentioning that they took lessons as adults, out of “My Nonno passed away a few years ago and a speci c desire to master the language. my Nonna is not getting any younger. I would This suggests that speaking Italian was hate to see their traditions die with them. Even not a speci c goal their second gener- learning the language would preserve the ation parents had for them, supporting memory of being Italian so I can pass it on to the idea that second generation my children and their children, and so on. I do diaspora are in general not overly not want to see such a rich culture disperse interested in cultural preservation and because the people who grew up in Italy are all transmission. gone. I want to learn and perfect my Nonna’s sauce, I want to be able to teach my kids and “I think it is important. I share stories of then their kids. There has to be a way to keep our family with my children so they have a the memories alive. I appreciate the opportuni- sense of where they came from. I am doing ties I have in Canada and living in such an a family tree again to share their history amazing country allows me to keep my Italian with them. Learning the language is roots alive” (Italian-Canadian 42). Question 20: To what extent do 9 (8.6%) of participants indicated you feel it is important to they thought preserving Italian preserve your Italian identity? identity was unimportant. 12 Please comment on any (11.5%) thought that it was particular activities or practices somewhat important. Answers in you think are useful in doing this category displayed an interest in this, and whether you engage in maintaining some parts of what had any of them yourself. been passed down to them, such as family values, which did not The extent to which individuals necessarily require Italian cultural were interested in preserving their labeling. Others wished to pass the identity was a central area of interest heritage on to children, but were in this report, as one of the unsure of how to do this. The rest of hypotheses was that 3rd generation the participants 80 (76.9%) Italian-Canadians have a stronger expressed strong agreement with the interest in cultural activities and idea that preserving Italian identity identity preservation than perhaps was important. Among the methods their parents did. In general, the they mentioned were food, social results supported this notion. Only gatherings, and language.

Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver memory is double. Not only does important to me and I would like to master it, cooking like grandma preserve her even if only at the conversational level. Crotch- memory for the adult grandchild, eting was taught to me by my grandmother and serving that food provides an I want to pass that on to my grandchildren. opportunity to tell children about the Travelling in Italy with my son and sharing family members who rst came to memories of his grandparents and great-grand- Canada from Italy, and discuss the parents. It is part of who I am, how I view life cultural link with that country. and its meaning” (Italian-Canadian 30).

29 Question 20: To what extent do 9 (8.6%) of participants indicated you feel it is important to they thought preserving Italian preserve your Italian identity? identity was unimportant. 12 Please comment on any (11.5%) thought that it was particular activities or practices somewhat important. Answers in you think are useful in doing this category displayed an interest in this, and whether you engage in maintaining some parts of what had any of them yourself. been passed down to them, such as family values, which did not The extent to which individuals necessarily require Italian cultural were interested in preserving their labeling. Others wished to pass the identity was a central area of interest heritage on to children, but were in this report, as one of the unsure of how to do this. The rest of hypotheses was that 3rd generation the participants 80 (76.9%) Italian-Canadians have a stronger expressed strong agreement with the interest in cultural activities and idea that preserving Italian identity identity preservation than perhaps was important. Among the methods their parents did. In general, the they mentioned were food, social results supported this notion. Only gatherings, and language.

The Italian Cultural Centre memory is double. Not only does important to me and I would like to master it, cooking like grandma preserve her even if only at the conversational level. Crotch- The Italian Cultural Centre memory for the adult grandchild, eting was taught to me by my grandmother and Among the comments that were genealogical records. serving that food provides an I want to pass that on to my grandchildren. repeated in responses to our survey 2) Travel. Arranged trips to opportunity to tell children about the Travelling in Italy with my son and sharing were the importance of language, various parts of Italy, with local family members who rst came to memories of his grandparents and great-grand- tradition, food, and social gatherings connections and billeting. Canada from Italy, and discuss the parents. It is part of who I am, how I view life in preserving Italian identity. While 3) Social. These events should be cultural link with that country. and its meaning” (Italian-Canadian 30). participants described themselves in targeted at the under 40 dierent ways, all four groups demographic. Networking Social gatherings were primarily about “It is mostly important in that I want my kids showed a strong interest in retaining events, cooking classes, banquets, maintaining ties with family members, to have the same sense of belonging as I did. a connection to their Italian heritage. concerts, and lms were all and then with other Italians. Events While I am Canadian and I love Canada, it In fact, many of them, including suggested. organised by the Italian Cultural was always nice to have another sense of culture self-described “Canadians”, Centre were speci cally mentioned, and ties to a di erent tradition. I wish my mentioned they were taking Italian In other parts of the survey, along with Italian Day, underlining the parents taught me the language from birth, and classes, or getting Italian citizenship. individuals mentioned the ICC importance of larger opportunities for I feel it would be a great thing to preserve the This indicates an area of potential for speci cally as important for its Italians to meet and mingle as a com- language for my children. I also hope to pass Vancouver’s Italian Cultural Centre language classes and social events. munity. along my citizenship to allow them to have the (ICC). To get more speci c detail, The challenge for the Centre is to extra opportunities that come with an EU participants were asked whether they continue serving the rst and second Language was perhaps the most fasci- citizenship. To be short — the importance of had attended any events or classes generation, whose interests are nating response. It was the most com- preserving my citizenship mainly lies with my there, and what events would interest dierent, while nding ways to monly cited way of preserving identity, future children” (Italian-Canadian 32). them. appeal to the third. On one hand, with many individuals mentioning they are more integrated, socially that they took lessons as adults, out of “My Nonno passed away a few years ago and One thing that emerged from many and culturally, into Canadian culture a speci c desire to master the language. my Nonna is not getting any younger. I would responses was the perception that the than their parents and grandparents. This suggests that speaking Italian was hate to see their traditions die with them. Even ICC was primarily for parents and On the other, they have an active not a speci c goal their second gener- learning the language would preserve the grandparents (the rst and second interest in re-connecting with their ation parents had for them, supporting memory of being Italian so I can pass it on to generation). They requested more cultural heritage, though they may the idea that second generation my children and their children, and so on. I do events engaging people in their teens not share their parents’ interest in diaspora are in general not overly not want to see such a rich culture disperse through thirties. The types of certain lms, activities, or music that interested in cultural preservation and because the people who grew up in Italy are all activities suggested fall into several they regard as dated. Since food was transmission. gone. I want to learn and perfect my Nonna’s broad categories: one of the most consistently sauce, I want to be able to teach my kids and mentioned touchstones of identity, “I think it is important. I share stories of then their kids. There has to be a way to keep 1)History. This included help activities centered around it may our family with my children so they have a the memories alive. I appreciate the opportuni- with family trees and access to have strong potential. sense of where they came from. I am doing ties I have in Canada and living in such an a family tree again to share their history amazing country allows me to keep my Italian with them. Learning the language is roots alive” (Italian-Canadian 42).

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 30 Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

Looking Ahead

This study was a relatively small snapshot What similar challenges might other of Vancouver’s Italian community. It cultural community centres be facing? would be useful to look at Italian How does the role of a cultural community populations in other parts of Canada, to centre evolve to serve the changing needs see whether a similar interest is evident of an increasingly integrated population? in the third generation there. Another What are the surviving markers of cultural area for future research is to compare identities, and how are they retained? These third generation Italians in Canada with are all areas for further investigation. the third generation of other immigrant However, the diaspora experience is surely communities. What part of the identity something that many of us can relate to, in retrieval urge is common to third this country of immigrants. Much of this generation diaspora members, and story will resonate with our own which features are distinctively Italian? experiences of preserving family traditions and identity, Italian or not.

Afterword

The raw survey responses which directly. The author gratefully form the basis for this report are acknowledges the input of Dr. James available in a separate appendix. Busumtwi-Sam and Dr. Stefano Participants remain anonymous, Gulmanelli. While the author and are identi ed only by category bene tted from the comments and and number. Those interested in suggestions of other readers, she is viewing these responses are advised solely responsible for the content of to contact the author or the IDRE this report.

Eva Sajoo, Research Associate Institute for Diaspora Research & Engagement Simon Fraser University Email: [email protected] Twitter: @esajoo

31 Appendix A: Survey Questions

17) Please specify which region variety if that was your previous answer. Appendix 1: Survey Questions 18) Where do you use the language? 19) Who else in your family speaks Italian? (Specify standard or regional variety) Research Questions 20) What does Italian identity mean to you? 1) n/a 21) Do you view religion as part of Italian identity? To what extent is it part of your identity? 2) Age: 22) What aspects of Italian culture do you most relate to? 3) Neighborhood (please provide only the street you live on, and one cross street, not the full address): 23) How do you think other Canadians perceive Italians and Italian culture? 4) Education level: a) partial high school 24) Do you, as someone of Italian descent, feel dierent/distinct from other Canadians? How and why? b) high school complete 25) Do you have many Italians in your social network? How did you meet them? Is this important to you? c) some post secondary Why? d) undergraduate degree 26) Would you be more likely to patronize a business if it were run or owned by Italians? e) post graduate degree 27) Have you ever attended an event or class at Il Centro? Which ones? Do you know anyone who has? 5) Employment: Self: 28) Do you participate in other Italian-themed events? Which ones? (e.g. Italian Day on Commercial Drive, Father: other) Mother: 29) What types of events, services, or other activities would be of interest to you if oered at Il Centro? 6) Are both your parents Italian? 30) To what extent do you feel it is important to preserve your Italian identity? Please comment on any 7) How do you describe yourself: particular activities or practices you think are useful in doing this, and whether you engage in any of them a) Italian yourself. Please include any other reections on growing up in Canada as a person with Italian descent, and b) Italian-Canadian what this means to you. c) Canadian ______d) Other (please specify:______) ______8) If your answer to the previous question was “other”, please specify. ______9) Why do you describe yourself that way in your answer to question 7? ______10) How long has your family been in Canada? When did they arrive and where did they go? ______

11) Why did they leave Italy? Thank you for completing this survey. If you have any questions about the research, or if you decide, after 12) What connection do you (or other family members) have with Italy (e.g Travel, education, business, submitting your responses, that you wish to withdraw from the study, email the research team at ongoing family ties, other). [email protected] indicating that you want your survey responses to be deleted from the study les. Participants may withdraw at any time without giving a reason and without any negative impact. 13) Have you ever visited Italy? Complaints or concerns should be addressed to the Director of the Oce of Research Ethics, Dr. Je Toward, 14) If so, how did this aect your sense of identity? [email protected], 778-782-6593. 15) Do you speak and/or write Italian? 16) If you speak/write Italian, please specify if it is: a) standard Italian, b) some regional variety (Specify which one: ______) c) a mixture of Italian and English words,

sfu.ca/diaspora-institute 32 Being Ethnic: 3rd Generation Italian Identity in Vancouver

17) Please specify which region variety if that was your previous answer. 18) Where do you use the language? 19) Who else in your family speaks Italian? (Specify standard or regional variety) Research Questions 20) What does Italian identity mean to you? 1) n/a 21) Do you view religion as part of Italian identity? To what extent is it part of your identity? 2) Age: 22) What aspects of Italian culture do you most relate to? 3) Neighborhood (please provide only the street you live on, and one cross street, not the full address): 23) How do you think other Canadians perceive Italians and Italian culture? 4) Education level: a) partial high school 24) Do you, as someone of Italian descent, feel dierent/distinct from other Canadians? How and why? b) high school complete 25) Do you have many Italians in your social network? How did you meet them? Is this important to you? c) some post secondary Why? d) undergraduate degree 26) Would you be more likely to patronize a business if it were run or owned by Italians? e) post graduate degree 27) Have you ever attended an event or class at Il Centro? Which ones? Do you know anyone who has? 5) Employment: Self: 28) Do you participate in other Italian-themed events? Which ones? (e.g. Italian Day on Commercial Drive, Father: other) Mother: 29) What types of events, services, or other activities would be of interest to you if oered at Il Centro? 6) Are both your parents Italian? 30) To what extent do you feel it is important to preserve your Italian identity? Please comment on any 7) How do you describe yourself: particular activities or practices you think are useful in doing this, and whether you engage in any of them a) Italian yourself. Please include any other reections on growing up in Canada as a person with Italian descent, and b) Italian-Canadian what this means to you. c) Canadian ______d) Other (please specify:______) ______8) If your answer to the previous question was “other”, please specify. ______9) Why do you describe yourself that way in your answer to question 7? ______10) How long has your family been in Canada? When did they arrive and where did they go? ______