@article{Deffa2016,
  author    = {Deffa, Oromiya-Jalata},
  title     = {The impact of homogeneity on intra-group cohesion: a macro-level comparison of minority communities in a Western diaspora},
  series = {Journal of multilingual and multicultural development},
  volume    = {37},
  journal   = {Journal of multilingual and multicultural development},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Abingdon},
  issn      = {0143-4632},
  doi       = {10.1080/01434632.2015.1072203},
  pages     = {343 -- 356},
  year      = {2016},
  abstract  = {Contrary to earlier studies dealing with the cultural identity development of diasporic minorities, this paper assesses the impact of homogeneity on intra-group cohesion and ethnic orientation. To this end, Oromo-Americans, an ethnic group originally located within the national borders of Ethiopia, will be compared to Armenian-Americans, British-Pakistanis and Somali-Americans. Despite different circumstances, all four groups share the experience of displacement owing to war and destitution. Additionally, all groups are confronted with the ramifications of a visible minority status. In the process of comparing these groups, their degrees of homogeneity in regard to language and religion - central aspects of culture and cultural identity - will be examined and juxtaposed at a macro level. Based on the correlative relationship of group homogeneity and social cohesion, I argue that the more homogeneous a group is in terms of language and religion, the more close-knit it will be. Consequently, exiled minorities who share the same language and religion are more likely to develop and retain a strong ethnic orientation than groups who are heterogeneous with regard to language and/or religion.},
  language  = {en}
}