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We Don’t Only Live Here, But We Also Live There”: Exploring Transnational Ties Among Ghanaian Immigrants in Toronto

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  • David Firang

    (Trent University)

Abstract

Many studies of immigrant settlement and integration continue to do so within the borders of a nation state without reference to transnationalism. This case study of Ghanaian immigrants’ transnationalism in Toronto aims to increase our understanding of one racialized immigrant group’s settlement and integration process that transcends Canada’s borders. Utilizing a mixed method approach, this study builds on previous studies on Ghanaian transnationality by exploring a range of transnational activities between Ghana and Canada. Conceptually, the study contributes to an understanding of how the “here” and “there” constitutes a transnational social field for Ghanaians in Toronto. Empirically, the study adds to our knowledge of how racialized immigrants, like Ghanaians, with a wealth of socio-demographic assets, struggle to integrate into a larger Canadian society. The empirical analysis reveals that Ghanaians’ over-representation in low occupational jobs diminishes their social status in Toronto. Unlike previous studies on Ghanaian transnationality, this paper argues that structural elements of oppression and privilege embedded within the Canadian society are the underlying cause of Ghanaian immigrants’ social status reduction. Transnationalism provides a social field to lift Ghanaian immigrants’ self-esteem and social status. Thus, the expression we do not only live here, but we also live there will continue to manifest the Ghanaian settlement and integration process in Canada.

Suggested Citation

  • David Firang, 2022. "We Don’t Only Live Here, But We Also Live There”: Exploring Transnational Ties Among Ghanaian Immigrants in Toronto," Journal of International Migration and Integration, Springer, vol. 23(4), pages 1739-1764, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:joimai:v:23:y:2022:i:4:d:10.1007_s12134-021-00911-4
    DOI: 10.1007/s12134-021-00911-4
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Daniel Hiebert, 2006. "Winning, Losing, And Still Playing The Game: The Political Economy Of Immigration In Canada," Tijdschrift voor Economische en Sociale Geografie, Royal Dutch Geographical Society KNAG, vol. 97(1), pages 38-48, February.
    2. David Firang, 2019. "Exploring housing careers among Ghanaians in Toronto, Canada," Housing Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 34(5), pages 868-891, May.
    3. Lothar Smith & Valentina Mazzucato, 2009. "Constructing Homes, Building Relationships: Migrant Investments In Houses," Tijdschrift voor Economische en Sociale Geografie, Royal Dutch Geographical Society KNAG, vol. 100(5), pages 662-673, December.
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