Week 3: Kristina Nguyen

A major theme depicted in "From Immigrant to Transmigrant: Theorizing Transnational Migration" is the idea that in today's society, immigrants do not break off ties with their homeland but instead remain connected to their homeland through remittances and other forms of communication. 

Schiller et al. dissects the reasons for transnational migration; one being the racism that newcomers face that consequently effects their political and economic insecurities. Growing up, I have definitely overheard my dad talk about joining the Vietnam military if Vietnam ever went into war with surrounding countries (such as China). He definitely was accustomed to the United States but never lost site of his political connection with his homeland. 

I can understand why many immigrants remain connected to their homeland. I feel as though it really is connected to the culture of respecting elders, staying humble, and giving back. My family, for example, continue to send money overseas to help repair our families' homes and etc. It's interesting to me though, how immigrants can be a billionaire in their homeland but will struggle in America to make it out of the lower-middle class. What drives them to continue to work hard in this country?