Cross-cultural and transnational identity: a case study of Bulgarian immigrants in Canada

After highlighting concepts such as diaspora, acculturation and integration of immigrants, transnational identity, and multiculturalism policy, the authors present results from a case study of 16 Bulgarian emigrants to Canada. The aim is to investigate what changes have taken place in their perception of national and self-identity, and to what extent these changes are dependent on factors such as age, education, reasons for emigration and length of stay. The participants were interviewed as to what bonds they have retained with their country of origin in terms of observation of traditions, range of social contacts and participation in the Bulgarian community in Canada, and what ideas, customs and behavioural modes they have absorbed from the host country. Their responses provide insight into what it feels to be a transnational citizen in today's increasingly globalising world.