“Haiti is my Heart”: Exploring Return Migration Experiences Among the Haitian American Diaspora

Author

Semline SingletonFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-7-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in International Conflict Management

Department

School of Conflict Management, Peacebuilding and Development

Committee Chair/First Advisor

Charity Butcher, PhD

Second Advisor

Darina Lepadatu, PhD

Third Advisor

Ronald Cetoute, PhD

Abstract

The dissertation explored the return migration experiences among first- and second-generation Haitian diaspora members in the United States. The study aimed to fill gaps in the existing literature and provide a deeper understanding of the individual experience of return migration through a social and cultural lens. While previous research has focused on the political and economic aspects of return migration, this study examined the personal narratives of return migrants. It explored the causes, impacts, and individual experiences of return migration. To achieve the study's objectives, in-depth interviews were conducted with identified Haitian diaspora members who had returned to Haiti. The interviews were analyzed using description-based coding to identify emerging themes related to the return migration process. The findings reveal that social connections and networks are crucial in facilitating a smoother reintegration process, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and addressing returnees' social and cultural needs and expectations. Haitian diaspora members view return migration as an opportunity to contribute to the development of their homeland and maintain their cultural identity.

This research is significant because it contributes to understanding the individual experiences of return migration and its role within the broader framework of global migration patterns. The study highlights the importance of incorporating a social and cultural lens in analyzing return migration and its impact on host and home countries. The findings suggest that policymakers and stakeholders should consider the social and cultural factors that motivate return migration when designing policies to manage migration flows.