The study of diasporic objects has emerged as a sub-concept of material culture studies, reflecting the interconnection of mobility and materiality, and the importance of objects in relation to the experiences of migrants and diaspora communities. In this article, we explore the importance of diasporic objects within the Sudanese diaspora in Turkey, focusing on the significance of these objects in households of dual heritage. Using thematic discourse analysis, we identify three main categories of diasporic objects, including food and kitchen objects, biographic objects, and socio-cultural objects. Drawing on interdisciplinary research, we examine the potential functions and significance of these objects, as well as the broader social and cultural practices that surround them. Our findings suggest that diasporic objects can serve as powerful symbols of cultural identity and personal history, providing a sense of continuity and connection for individuals in the diaspora. Moreover, these objects can offer a source of comfort and support, acting as emotional companions that help individuals to maintain a sense of belonging and identity during the challenging experiences of migration and displacement.
The Maghrebian diaspora in Turkey is a significant and understudied population. This research investigates the role of food and foodways in expressing cultural identity, belonging, and integration for Maghrebian migrants residing in Turkey for more than a decade. Using a qualitative research methodology and semi-structured interviews with Tunisian, Algerian, Moroccan, and Libyan migrants, the study examines how food practices shape their sense of belonging and identity in Turkish society. The study finds that food serves as a tool for coping with homesickness, connecting with cultural heritage, and preserving memories of the past. It also reveals the importance of food practices in maintaining a sense of belonging to the broader society, including the family back home and the diasporic community in Turkey, and promoting cultural exchange between the Maghrebian community and Turkish society, thus facilitating the integration process. This study provides important insights into the ways in which food and foodways play a significant role in diaspora community formation and integration.
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