The Perspectives of Haitian Parents on Heritage Language Maintenance

Abstract

Purpose: The study sought to understand Haitian parents' perspectives on heritage language maintenance with typically developing children.

Method: Semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 Haitian parents of typically developing children. A thematic analysis was conducted to determine recurring themes.

Results: Participants desired to preserve the heritage language; however, factors such as linguistic and class ideologies of Haiti, xenophobia within the United States, and English monolingualism hindered parents' success in maintaining the heritage language.

Conclusion: The findings from this study demonstrate the need for additional research and resources to help support the Haitian community's desire for heritage language maintenance to promote healthy communication practices, decrease language loss, and foster social communication in the home and community.