(Digital) diasporic social networks of Nepalese immigrants in the San Francisco Bay Area of California: an ethnographic examination of informal social protection

This study focuses on the co-ethnic social networks of Nepalese immigrants in the San Francisco Bay Area, particularly with respect to how diasporic social networks help immigrants secure social protection upon arrival in the US. Through a (digital) ethnographic approach such as browsing of diasporic Facebook groups, participant observation at diasporic gatherings, and semi-structured interviews, this study interrogated what role diasporic social networks play for the lives of Nepalese immigrants in the San Francisco Bay Area, particularly to address precarity and secure informal social protection. The study found that kinship and friendship networks as well as diasporic social networks and digital forums form an arrival infrastructure for newcomer immigrants in the US through informational and social support for housing and employment. Furthermore, the study documented the financial, legal, and social precarity that Nepalese immigrants narrated, and found that diasporic networks can be a source of social support in these situations though they can also lead to further dependent relations and exploitation. Another important finding is that Facebook groups in the Nepalese diaspora are essential forums for spreading and accessing information as well as gathering financial and material support. The study also found that Nepalese diaspora organizations support the socialization and strengthening of social capital of the community, though representational gaps and caste-based dynamics as well as veteran-newcomer power dynamics permeate. Importantly, the findings also demonstrate that symbolic boundaries of diasporic networks based on notions of deservingness also condition social support and can create dependent and exploitative dynamics. Lastly, the study found that members of the community believe the Nepalese immigrant community should be better informed of state-provisioned services and resources. Overall, the findings of the study illuminate the centrality of social networks in the migration and arrival process of Nepalese immigrants in the US. The study finds that diasporic social networks is an important source of informal social protection, though due to power dynamics and exclusion, must be complemented through access to other sources of social protection as well, particularly state provided. Recommendations targeted at the state include allowing work authorization for international students and asylum applicants as well as increased outreach to newcomer immigrants with targeted services. Recommendations to community leaders include outreach to local authorities and service providers, organizing targeted social support programs, and increased representation of youth, women, and ‘caste-oppressed’ individuals in decision-making.