Graduation Term
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Department of Sociology and Anthropology: Sociology
Committee Chair
Maura Toro-Morn
Committee Co-Chair
Richard Sullivan
Committee Member
Christine Varga-Harris
Committee Member
Chris Wellin
Abstract
Two million Eastern European immigrants have come to the U.S. in the latter part of the twentieth century, yet there is little research exploring their experiences. Slovakian immigrants represent one group whose presence in the U.S. has not been studied. This thesis investigates how Slovakian immigrants navigate their immigration experience in the aftermath of what is known as the Velvet Divorce, focusing on economic-driven and family-driven migration and transnationalism. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through ten semi-structured interviews with Slovakian immigrants within the greater Chicago area. The informants in this study recalled their reasons for leaving Slovakia, which included the economic state of Slovakia, opportunities in America, and relationships, whether familial or romantic. They continue to maintain their heritage through language, raising their children within the culture, participating in Slovak communities, and staying in touch with their family and friends in Slovakia. These findings provide insights into the intersection of migration and gender, while offering valuable implications for future studies supporting immigrant communities.
Access Type
Thesis-Open Access
Recommended Citation
Kanuk, Taylor A., "Slovakian Migration in the Aftermath of the Velvet Revolution: A Qualitative Study Exploring Gender Relations through Migration to the United States" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 2084.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/etd/2084
Included in
Gender and Sexuality Commons, Migration Studies Commons, Quantitative, Qualitative, Comparative, and Historical Methodologies Commons
