Exploring the Experience of Arab Mothers Raising Children in South Texas: Maintaining Arabic Heritage Language and Cultural Identity

Abstract

In the United States, language maintenance among minority populations often faced significant challenges, particularly in linguistically and culturally diverse environments like South Texas. This qualitative study explored the experiences of Arab mothers in South Texas as they endeavored to maintain the Arabic language and Arab culture within their families. Utilizing semi-structured interviews conducted via Zoom, this research delved into the personal efforts, strategies, and challenges faced by these mothers in transmitting their heritage language and cultural values to their children. Despite the dominance of English and the absence of substantial institutional support, these mothers demonstrated remarkable dedication and ingenuity in fostering an environment conducive to language and cultural retention. The findings highlighted the central role of the home setting and religious practices in language maintenance, and the profound impact of personal commitment and community support in overcoming the multicultural challenges (Fishman, 2001). This study contributed to the understanding of language maintenance in minority communities and underscored the importance of family dynamics and cultural practices in the intergenerational transmission of minority languages.