Speaker: Nicole Constable (University of Pittsburgh, USA)

Discussant: Kim Kwok (City University, Hong Kong)

Reservation and Contact: Miriam Yang

cefc@cefc.com.hk / tel: 2876 6910

Speaker:

Nicole Constable is Professor of Anthropology in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, and Director of the Asian Studies Center, at the University of Pittsburgh. She has been studying and conducting research in Hong Kong for over thirty years. She is the author of several books including: Romance on a Global Stage, Maid to Order in Hong Kong, and Born Out of Place: Migrant Mothers and the Politics of International Labor (Hong Kong University Press and University of California Press, 2014).

Discussant:

Kim Kwok holds a BA in Social Sciences (Chinese University of HK), an MA in Migration Studies (University of Sussex) and a PhD in Chinese Studies. She is currently a lecturer in the Community College of City University, HK. Her research interests are Chinese migration, immigrant business, gender and sexuality, and contemporary Chinese society.

Abstract:

This presentation draws from her new book, Born Out of Place: Migrant Mothers and the Politics of International Labor. The author will focus on a spectrum of migratory situations faced by Indonesian and Filipino migrant women workers who become mothers in Hong Kong, paying particular attention to the experiences of those who have become asylum seekers and overstayers. These women are on the least privileged end of the migratory spectrum. Their situations are highly precarious, and their tactics are more desperate and creative than among more privileged migrant wives and workers. How do migrant mothers creatively and strategically struggle to transform bad situations into more favorable ones? How do Hong Kong’s laws and policies offer both opportunities and constraints for mothers and for their children?

ALL INTERESTED ARE WELCOME!

This seminar will be held in English.
Sebastian Veg, Director of the CEFC, will chair the session.
Snacks and drinks will be served after the seminar.
Seats are limited. Please confirm your attendance.

Audio recording is available on our website. Please click here for more information.