Language a massive barrier for new New Zealand immigrants

[Harold Schiffman]

Language a massive barrier for new NZ immigrants: Report
3:54PM Tuesday Apr 21, 2009

Language difficulties have been identified as one of the main issues
preventing non-Western families adjusting to culture and getting ahead
in New Zealand. Research released today by the Families Commission, in
collaboration with the NZ Federation of Ethnic Councils , found many
conflicts identified among the 39 immigrant parents and children
interviewed were about trust and differing opinions. Findings
suggested inter-generational conflicts which occurred when young
people reached adolescence could be worsened by the process of
cultural transition. However, outside the family it was found that
personal wellbeing in New Zealand was improved and the increased
opportunities were noted.

On the negative side, language barriers were found to be a one of the
biggest challenges, and some talked about cultural discrimination and
a lack of work opportunities. Many said they were struggling to find
work, despite qualifications, and that the situation led to income
issues and distress.
I came here thinking that my life would change for the better, I will
get a job, but this hasn't happened," an African father said. An
African mother said she found it difficult having to do shift work to
pay the bills, and at the same time the situation was keeping her
separated from her son. A young Muslim woman said she felt alienated
because people couldn't get used to her veil, while a young man talked
about his family being treated like "terrorists" in their
neighbourhood.

"We have not been accepted by the people here, so I have nothing else
but to stay the same ... if the way they talk and treat us is the New
Zealand way then I don't want to be part of it".  Despite the
comments, the report said most participants didn't discuss
discrimination and ignorance, but a lack of acceptance was seen as
barrier for integration into New Zealand society. While many
participants saw themselves as actively trying to fit in to New
Zealand society, maintaining ethnic traditions was also important. The
report said despite some difficulties, relationships between parents
and children were generally healthy, and members felt well adjusted
and supported.

Families coming to New Zealand generally had a grounding foundation
for their home culture's beliefs, values and language, and that needed
to be maintained.

The report said policy should be directed towards supporting
pre-existing strengths of immigrant families, while seeking to address
problems in acculturation.

Findings suggested there was possibility for a greater role for local
government to facilitate the enhancement of the strengths in migrant
families.

That included providing information in migrant communities for social
services, groups and organisations.

"Strengths-based family training programmes as well as interventions
would be well placed at this level," it said.

Encouragement for participation in the wider society also needed to be
facilitated.

Policy changes permitting the entry of overseas family members to New
Zealand with temporary or long-term visas would also be welcomed by
families here, the report said.

It said a more comprehensive survey was needed to identify how
families could be further assisted once here.

The research involved families from African, Middle Eastern and Asian
backgrounds.

- NZPA

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10567789



-- 
**************************************
N.b.: Listing on the lgpolicy-list is merely intended as a service to
its members
and implies neither approval, confirmation nor agreement by the owner
or sponsor of
the list as to the veracity of a message's contents. Members who
disagree with a
message are encouraged to post a rebuttal. (H. Schiffman, Moderator)
*******************************************