Caribbean diaspora in USA

By Bettina E. Schmidt

Book Description

This groundbreaking exploration reveals how Caribbean religious communities in New York City have created a vibrant spiritual tapestry that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries. Through original research, Bettina E. Schmidt examines how Spanish, English, and French-speaking Caribbean migrants have woven together their diverse religious traditions to form dynamic new expressions of faith.

The book unveils a compelling cultural theory that emerges from the lived experiences of these diaspora communities. Rather than viewing migration as a loss of tradition, Schmidt demonstrates how Caribbean spirituality has evolved and flourished in urban America, creating innovative forms of religious practice that honor ancestral wisdom while adapting to contemporary realities.

Drawing on extensive fieldwork within New York's Caribbean neighborhoods, the author illuminates how these communities navigate the complexities of maintaining spiritual identity across cultures. The research reveals fascinating insights into how religious practices transform when transplanted to new soil, yet retain their essential power to provide meaning, community, and connection to the sacred.

For readers interested in understanding how spirituality adapts and thrives in our globalized world, this work offers valuable perspectives on cultural resilience and religious innovation. The book bridges academic scholarship with the authentic voices of practitioners, creating a nuanced portrait of how faith communities preserve their essence while embracing transformation in diaspora settings.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~6 hours)

📄 Length: 198 pages

What You'll Discover

✓ Explore Religion
✓ Explore Globalization
✓ Explore Caribbean area, religion
✓ Explore Religious life and customs
✓ Explore West indians, united states
✓ Explore New york (n.y.), social life and customs
✓ Explore Social life and customs
✓ Explore Mœurs et coutumes

Topics Covered

Religion Globalization Caribbean area, religion Religious life and customs West indians, united states New york (n.y.), social life and customs Social life and customs Mœurs et coutumes Caribbean Americans POLITICAL SCIENCE United states, ethnic relations Américains d'origine antillaise Manners and customs Popular culture Vie intellectuelle Ethnic relations Intellectual life Culture populaire New york (n.y.), intellectual life