Item – Theses Canada

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OCLC number
46494623
Author
Starkman, Alvin G.
Title
Nova Scotian Black migrants in Toronto.
Degree
M.A. -- York University, 1978
Publisher
Ottawa : National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1995.
Description
2 microfiches.
Notes
Includes bibliographical references.
Abstract
A geographical mobility framework is utilized to examine a number of behavioural patterns characterizing the Nova Scotian Black population living in Toronto. The geographical mobility is manifest by the maintenance of strong kinship ties of interlocality. Within this defined framework it becomes advantageous to perceive of both migrant and home populations as constituting a system. From the analysis emerges a picture of Blacks in Toronto who have come from rural and semi-urban communities in Nova Scotia, these communities are characterized by the historically initiated situation of Black economic and service dependency on Whites. These Toronto Blacks live in a city where steady employment, which is lacking in the Maritime regions is accessible, and where generally "adequate" housing and living conditions exist. The great deal of geographical mobility of the individuals under study is partially a function of the desire to maintain kinship ties which prove to be important during the migratory process. In many cases the move to Toronto is deemed temporary, with a return to Nova Scotia anticipated following an accumulation of capital or when news of opportunities back East reaches Toronto. Those who intend to remain in Toronto. maintain ties as a safeguard in case of "failure" in Toronto. For those in Nova Scotia, maintaining these interlocal ties assures one of initial housing and employment upon migrating to Toronto, as well as of aid during crises. Occupations held are those which can be prearranged by kin and do not require continual employment so that a visit to Nova Scotia does not result in a permanent job loss upon return to Toronto. Success in Toronto is defined in terms of the acquisition of resources which are scarce in Nova Scotian terms, and demonstrated by visits "home" and/or the giving of gifts. With primary identification being Nova Scotian and kin-based networks functioning both to maintain this identity and to aid the individual in obtaining needs and desires in Toronto, the need for voluntary associations is reduced and consequently the opportunities for group aspirations to grow are minimal within the Toronto sector of the Nova Scotian Black system of relations. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
ISBN
0315967781
9780315967786