Current Status, Challenges, and Pathways for the Integration of Local and Immigrant Cultures in Dongguan under the 'Dual Ten Thousand' Context

In Dongguan, a quintessential immigrant city of China, the dynamic interplay between local and immigrant cultures has been a consistent focal point. As Dongguan transitions into the "Dual Ten Thousand" era, characterized by a GDP surpassing one trillion RMB and a population exceeding ten million, the cultivation of cultural identity emerges as a pivotal factor for ensuring social cohesion and sustainable development. This research delineates three key findings. The evolution of the relationship between local and immigrant cultures has traversed three distinct phases: initial conflict (around 2000), subsequent mitigation (post-2007 with initiatives such as "New Dongguanese"), and eventual dilution (post-2014 as official distinctions waned). Presently, cultural amalgamation is intricate, encompassing (1) intergenerational disparities among locals (traditional older generations versus progressive youth), (2) diverse perceptions of integration among migrants contingent upon economic security and Household Register status, and (3) the coexistence of a geographically circumscribed local culture alongside a fragmented immigrant culture. To promote integration and fortify cultural identity, Dongguan must amplify the prominence of its local culture to forge a unified urban identity, facilitate inter-group dialogue, and prioritize migrant well-being by enhancing employment opportunities, healthcare provisions, and educational systems.