UNPACKING HOME

Communicative
Evidence MEANING

Gia Terrones & Damara Tarazona

 INTRODUCTION
The word “home” represents more than
just a physical space; it encapsulates
emotions, memories, and a sense of
belonging that resonate deeply within us.
Let's embark on a journey to uncover the
layers of meaning that "home" holds for
individuals and communities.
UNDERSTANDING
THE MEANING OF “HOME”

"Home" encompasses a range of definitions, shaped

by cultural, emotional, and personal factors. It can
refer to a dwelling place, a sanctuary of comfort and
safety, and a repository of cherished memories.
Each person's perception of home is uniquely
colored by their experiences and backgrounds.
 SYMBOLISM OF

HOME
Beyond its concrete attributes, "home" carries
symbolic weight. It symbolizes security, a place where
we can truly be ourselves, and a source of stability
amidst life's uncertainties. The symbolism of home ties
into our innate need for connection and identity.
EXPLORING TENEMENT LIFE

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, tenements stood as

prominent urban housing for many lower-income families. These
multi-unit buildings often housed multiple families, offering a
glimpse into a different facet of "home."

CHALLENGES
Life within tenements was marked by harsh challenges.
Overcrowding, inadequate sanitation, and limited space
presented difficulties that impacted the residents'
quality of life. Yet, even amid these hardships, tenement
dwellers sought ways to make these spaces their own.
FINDING HOME

Remarkably, residents of tenements

formed tight-knit communities,
supporting one another through shared
experiences. They transformed these
challenging living conditions into spaces
of belonging, demonstrating humanity's
remarkable capacity to create a sense of
home, regardless of circumstances.
 WHAT IS HOME
FOR IMMIGRANTS?
Immigrants often leave their
birthplace due to economic,
political, or social factors,
seeking better opportunities and
a safer environment. Leaving
behind familiar surroundings and
cultural ties: Immigrants face the
challenge of leaving behind their
homes and adapting to a new
culture and environment.
IMMIGRATION AND THE SEARCH OF HOME
 CHALLENGES
Language barriers and
cultural differences:
FACED
Immigrants often face
difficulties in communication
and adjusting to new cultural
norms. Navigating new social
and legal systems:
Immigrants must learn to
navigate unfamiliar social
and legal systems in their
new home. BY IMMIGRANTS
 The desire to preserve cultural
heritage while assimilating into the
ASSIMILATION

new society presents a delicate

balance. Immigrants often grapple
with maintaining their traditions,
values, and language, while also
adapting to the host culture.
Striking this balance requires them
to redefine their sense of identity.
HERITAGE
THE EVOLUTION OF HOME

FOR IMMIGRANTS

Creating a cultural bridge between the

old and new home: Immigrants often find
ways to incorporate elements of their
culture into their new homes, creating a
sense of familiarity and belonging.
Forming new communities and support
networks: Immigrants often form
communities with fellow immigrants,
providing support and a sense of
belonging.
 CONCLUSION

This presentation underscores the

profound meaning of "home" and its
symbolism, highlighting the
challenges within "tenement life"
and immigration. It reminds us of the
significance of empathy and
inclusivity in nurturing a welcoming
home for all, regardless of their
background or circumstances.
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/14687968211007462.

https://www.schlage.com/blog/categories/2020/11/meaning-of-home.html

https://americanexperience.si.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Tenement-Life_.pdf

https://nysiaf.org/the-8-biggest-challenges-facing-immigrants/
THANK YOU FOR
YOUR ATTENTION