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Post by PattyL on Feb 18, 2019 17:13:25 GMT -5
I am contemplating the Overseas Chinese Genealogy Workshop & Tours this year. I have a cultural question. Does anyone have knowledge how the village today considers the OC's who are "2nd Family"? My Yen Yen was brought to the US very young (17) and as "2nd Wife". The US 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act had far-reaching social impact upon the immigrant families at that time, and I am not sure this subject has really been thoroughly discussed. We knew she did not like her status and there was animosity from her that my grandfather dutifully sent money home to 1st Family. After grandfather died, she did not keep in contact with the village. Probably why I needed to join this group for help to find our way back. As I think through taking this trip, I would like to know how the Chinese today view the Overseas Chinese and the fact many of us are indeed 2nd Family. Are there still biases about us as OC's AND 2nd families? I would like to know what I might be walking into.  |
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Post by FayChee on Feb 18, 2019 18:27:20 GMT -5
Hi PattyL,
Imagine being a 'Third Banana' and illegitimate.........and your mom being referred to as the 'Concubine'.....
They knew about us, but did not acknowledge us. I had to do a lot of digging to find them, but now all is 'well'.
Without this forum's help, we would still 'not exist'........
You are on the right road.... and with the help of these kind, generous forum members, you will find the answers. More likely than not, you will be welcomed at your Ancestral Village with opened arms and warm greetings.
Wishing you success on your journey,
Fay Chee
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Post by PattyL on Feb 18, 2019 18:43:24 GMT -5
Wow FayChee, thank you for that perspective! |
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Post by Henry on Feb 18, 2019 21:13:45 GMT -5
PattyL,
Some of the people that attended the China workshop in Nov 2018 also had the same apprehensions about village relative and how they would be perceived.
The Wuyi University researchers would provide a lot of information & details about your ancestral village and village relatives - weeks before your arrival in China & visit to the village. You can interact directly with the researcher and ask him/her specifics about the villagers & definitely have a pretty good idea about the dispostion of the relatives.
As Fay Chee has mentioned, more than likely - you & your family would be welcomed warmly.
Henry
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Post by PattyL on Feb 18, 2019 22:04:02 GMT -5
Henry, Alright, that is reassuring the Wuyi team will be able to mitigate potential issues beforehand. Thank you!
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Post by Henry on Feb 19, 2019 13:55:44 GMT -5
PattyL,
Your Wuyi researcher would also handle any requests you had regarding paying your respects at the ancestral home, village cemetery, and ancestral hall, or many any arrangements for you before your visit.
Henry
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Post by genekl on Mar 18, 2019 11:04:00 GMT -5
When I examine my village records, I can see many ancestors who had several wives. The whole idea is not unusual in Chinese culture although it is not acceptable in modern society. I suspect modern relatives would think back to the hardship of separation in those times, consider the pressure to bear children and so not harbor any resentment. All the best in your quest.
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