Introduction

Understanding the complex relationship between Turkish descendants living in Germany and their cultural origins is crucial. The Turkish descendants living in Germany navigate a unique cultural and social landscape, where they often find themselves in-between two nations. This article explores why they maintain a strong connection to their Turkish heritage despite being German citizens.

Why Turkish Culture Thrives Among German Citizens

Living in Germany can feel like a double-edged sword. While there are moments of rejection and complexity from their German peers and neighbors, Turkish descendants often find solace and a sense of belonging in their Turkish roots. The distance and nostalgia for Turkey often outweigh the challenges of daily life in a foreign country.

No Clear Cut Identity

These individuals are caught in a limbo. Neither fully accepted in Germany nor in Turkey, they form a unique identity that is somewhere in between. Many strongly associate with Turkey, recalling fond memories of holidays, good food, and family gatherings. Alternatively, daily life in Germany might seem mundane, despite the numerous benefits of living in a modern and diverse society.

Impact of Generational Changes

Over time, this connection to Turkey may weaken as the generations evolve. The first generation tends to stay closer to their cultural roots, often in retirement and near the passing of their grandparents. However, the second and third generations are increasingly integrating into German culture. Third-generation children might not speak Turkish fluently and might not form the same close bonds with Turkey.

Intergenerational Shifts

Interracial marriages between Germans and Turkish descendants further contribute to the blurring of cultural lines. By 20 years, it is likely that these future generations will have a more favorable view of Germany while still acknowledging their Turkish heritage.

Comparison with Canadian Experiences

A similar phenomenon can be observed among white Canadians. Many of them often maintain a strong attachment to European culture and heritage over their Indigenous heritage, even though they are Canadian citizens. This highlights the complex, often involuntary, nature of cultural identity.

Respecting Host Nation

While maintaining their cultural traditions, it is essential for Turkish descendants to acknowledge and respect Germany as their host nation. Integration into German culture, while not requiring full assimilation, is vital for sustained social harmony. This process helps them adapt to and contribute to the social fabric of Germany while preserving their personal and cultural identities.

Personal Reflections

Personal experiences can offer insights into this dynamic. Often, Turkish descendants in Germany find that they experience rejection and discrimination from some German colleagues and neighbors, even though some German colleagues can be also quite unfriendly. This does not mean that all people from a certain background are negative; it is important to judge individuals based on their character, not their nationality or ethnicity.

Conclusion

From a personal standpoint, maintaining cultural traditions is important, but it is equally important to foster integration and respect for the host country. The third generation of Turkish descent in Germany is likely to form a different relationship with both Germany and Turkey, highlighting the dynamic and evolving nature of cultural identities in the face of globalization.