“We Bananas: Yellow Outside, White Inside“ - Empowerment Strategies of Vietgerman Identity in the Podcast “Rice and Shine"

Abstract

Abstract

This study investigates the representation and creation of Viet-German identity. The main focuses of the analysis are the forms of expression, problems finding identity, strategies of self-empowerment and external empowerment. The podcast “Rice and Shine” serves as a research specimen in order to analyse transnational identity constructions. The results show that Viet-German identity is a complex, fluid construct, which is individual and changeable. According to the podcast analysis, Viet-German identity is primarily made up of four forms of expression: language, communicative behavior, Confucian values ​​and food. At the same time, it turns out that such finding of identity is also fraught with problems. Many of the protagonists had difficulties recognizing who they were. They described problems both in defining their Vietnamese and German identity. However, the podcast shows approaches to solve such difficulties. These strategies include self-empowering measures such as self-reflection, networking, and cultural and media projects. In addition, external empowerment, such as the Vietnamese network, and “Ersatzverwandte” the German non-blood relatives, can be helpful in finding one's identity.