Ethnic self-identification and symbolic stereotyping: the portrayal of Louisiana Cajuns

Abstract

This article examines the process of ethnic self-identification. Utilizing data on Louisiana Cajuns, it proposes that contemporary Cajuns' self-image is rooted in stereotyped descriptions given by outsiders. Content analysis of popular depictions over two centuries shows the features and structure of the image to be quite stable despite considerable economic and social change. The meaning of the depiction, though, has evolved as those who consider themselves Cajuns have taken up and re-worked the stereotypes of outsiders, re-valuing negative portrayals as positive traits. Building on Herbert Gans's symbolic ethnicity argument, we propose that this development highlights the oft-neglected role that outsiders' definitions play in ethnic identification, and that it suggests a possible answer to the question "What is symbolized in symbolic ethnicity?".

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