BICULTURALISM AND IDENTITY
IN
CONTEMPORARY GULLAH FAMILIES
by
Peggy MacLeod Vogel
Dissertation submitted to the Faculty of
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
in
FAMILY AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT
APPROVED:
Janet K. Sawyers, Chairperson
Katherine R. Allen Scott W. Johnson
Dallas M. Johnson Michael J. Sporakowski
February 25, 2000 Blacksburg, Virginia
Key Words: Gullah, Family, Psychological, Bicultural, Symbolic Interaction, Identity Biculturalism and Identity in
Contemporary Gullah Families
Peggy MacLeod Vogel
Abstract
A qualitative study, using an oral history method was completed. Seven participants (2 men, 5 women) of Gullah descent from the St. Helena’s Island and
Charleston, South Carolina area were extensively interviewed. Symbolic interactionism provided the theoretical framework for the study. Findings included the recognition of the Gullah as a unique cultural group and the possible effects of slavery on identity formation for individuals as well as the Gullah community. Striking differences in physical space utilization between Gullah and non-Gullah residents were suggested. The presence of conflict between African and European beliefs and practices were seen in areas such as religious traditions, child rearing, and language. The pervasive effect of racism on identity and its relationship to biculturalism was discussed. Biculturalism appeared to be strongly related to survival as well as being an integral part of the participants’ identities.
ii Dedication To my children,
Ricky Zimmermann
Sarah Zimmermann
Samantha Vogel
Adam Vogel
Philip Vogel
Judy Pearman Wheeler
To my husband,
Mike Vogel
To my parents,
Norman and Isadore MacLeod
To my brothers and sister,
Alex MacLeod, Dan MacLeod and Lynn Strom
To my godmother and her brother,
Sybel Fellows and Charlie Fellows
To my very best friends,
Sandi Brenner, Judy Hoffman, Rebecca Lowry, Nancy McGee and Sue Stroman
For all your sacrifice, love, and support, I dedicate this work to you.
Peggy MacLeod Vogel
February 25, 2000
iii Acknowledgments
This study would never have been completed without a great deal of support and encouragement, especially from my family, friends, committee members and the
Gullah/Geechee Sea Island Coalition.
My deepest gratitude goes to:
My children, Ricky Zimmermann, Sarah Zimmermann, and Samantha
Vogel whose years of encouragement, cajoling, love and humor provided their Mom with the means to persevere.
My husband, Mike, whose love and faith in my abilities was an inspiration to me. You never doubted that I could do this.
My parents, Norman and Lynn MacLeod, who always encouraged my studies.
My committee members:
Dr. Janet Sawyers, who chaired my committee, for her unlimited patience, creativity, flexibility, academic excellence and adeptness at calming and focusing this veteran graduate student.
Dr. Michael Sporakowski, for many enjoyable classes, constant encouragement and willingness to work so hard to help me complete this study.
Dr. Katherine Allen, for her encouragement of excellence and her ability to bring out the best in me.
iv Dr. Scott Johnson, for his kindness, encouragement and scholarship during this lengthy process.
Dr. Dallas Johnson, for the years of friendship, mentoring, and for reminding me that I could do this.
The two best secretaries at Virginia Tech:
Ms. Martha Maretz and Ms. Kathy Surface for all their help and encouragement throughout this journey.
My very best friends:
Nancy McGee, Rebecca Lowry, Judy Hoffman, Sandi Brenner, and Sue Stroman, for always being there for me.
Thi