| Title: |
Cultural Identity, Language, and Gender Complementarity in Ehugbo New Yam Festival |
| Author(s): |
Patrick Uchenna Azubuike, Ngozi Ugo Emeka-Nwobia, Edith Ada Anyanwu, Glory Onyome Ozo& Godwin Chukwu |
| Abstract: |
This study examines the interplay of cultural identity, language and the dynamics of gender in Ehugbo New
Yam Festival. The specific objectives of the study are to examine the cultural dynamics of New Yam
festival in Ehugbo, ascertain the role of language in Ehugbo New Yam festival, and to explore the gender
based complementarity in Ehugbo New Yam festival. Data for the study were generated through focused
group discussion, oral interview, and participant observations and analyzed in line with Ting-Toomey?s
(1986) Identity Negotiation Theory. Findings of the study reveal that: new yam festival is a period to
magnify God for a bountiful harvest as well as a time to display certain unique cultural identities that
reinforce the people?s cultural heritages and bonds; Language used in the enactment of various rituals and
performances underscore the people?s rich linguistic diversity, and the new yam festival in Ehugbo
demonstrates a striking balance of roles signifying the vital contributions of both genders. The study
concludes that the new yam festival in Ehugbo is not only a veritable avenue for celebration that intertwines
cultural identity, language, and gender complementarity but also a period to re-emphasize the preserving
of cultural identities and heritages, fostering community?s unity and development as well as showcasing
the uniqueness of gender complementarity in Ehugbo. The study recommends a documentation and
preservation of rituals, historical and cultural significances emanating from the festival and create avenues
for educating younger generations about the importance of their cultural identities, language and gender
roles. |
| Keywords: |
Cultural Identity, Language, Gender Complementarity, New Yam Festival, Ehugbo
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EBONYI JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE
