Migration, Family Values and Continuity: A Study of Igbo Diaspora in Italy

Every ethnic group has distinctive features or characteristics. The continuity of those features is assured, notwithstanding some socio-political interruptions like the case of migration and other causes. To be an Igbo man, just like as is predominant in many African cultures, is to be identified with and by one’s culture. But the continuities of these cultural traits and features seem to be hampered by migration which has taken a more universal dimension. Does this migration actually affect the culture of the people or does the Igbos remain with their culture and values irrespective of migration? Migration actually disorientates people and as such, tampers with the continuity of their cultural values. The purpose of this paper is to discuss migration and its impacts on the age-long values of the Igbo people living in Italy. It tries to define what migration is, the people known as the Igbos and their family constitutions and the impact of migration in the general lives of the people but in a specific way on their values of lineage continuity, mutual interdependence and valorization of personal achievement. The specifics and daily existential challenges of the Igbos living in Italy were given an adequate attention. This paper does not in any way condemn migration but rather cautions of the negative effects if not properly handled. It also points out the dangers it poses to the collective values and sense of community and continuities among the Igbos in Italy in particular and Igbos in general as a nation.