Diversity

Oct 15, 2010 Social Work 110 Diversity Paper Portuguese The population that I choose but is not very prominent in our area is the population of Portuguese. Due to the small numbers in population in our area of Eastern North Carolina and my lack of exposure to this population, my knowledge about this population was very limited. However, I was able to expand my knowledge due to further research and my own personal interview with a pastor of the Portuguese culture. As we know the Portuguese people are native to the Iberian Peninsula in Europe, mainly the country of Portugal. Due to the large number of immigrants in this country, this country is known for the home of many immigrants. In the 16th centuries Portuguese people started immigrating to many different places such as the Americas, India, and Macau. The Portuguese continuous immigrating resulted in many Portuguese speaking communities around the world. For many centuries the Portuguese were know for sailing and ocean navigation. Portugal’s culture is a result from many different civilizations, varied practices, and beliefs. Portugal has a rich culture dating back to the prehistoric times. Many of their culture beliefs are displayed through the art of music, drama, and dance. Portuguese culture also puts a big emphasis on family. The family is the foundation of the social structure and forms the basis of stability. Along with the immediate family structure the extended family is very close in relationships as well. Loyalty to the family comes before any other relationships. The Portuguese culture takes great pride in their appearance and believe that your clothes represents social standing and success. The Portuguese people also show alot of respect to their hierarchy. Portuguese religion also plays a major part in their day to day life. Portugal considers itself Roman Catholic in many aspects of their lives such as socially, and culturally. Today 97% of Portuguese considered themselves Roman Catholic, the highest percentage in Western Europe. Many Portuguese holidays and festivals have religious origins, and the country's moral and legal values originated from Roman Catholic precepts. Portuguese's have many traditions that are somewhat similar to many people in the United States. Holidays are not the only recognized traditions in Portugal. Portuguese are very religious and superstitious, believing and taking part in magical practices and witchcraft. Many of these ceremonies are preformed when dealing with the sick and healing. The Portuguese believe that as long as you follow the Christian lifestyle you will be in good standings. Portuguese holidays are centered on the Christian calendar. Like in the United States many holidays include Easter, Good Friday, and Christmas. The most important holiday the Portuguese celebrate, on December 25th is Christmas also known as Christmas in Velia Vehla. Portugal has a very diverse culture due to the large number of immigrants in this country. As immigrants continue to immigrate to this country a number of issues can arise. Many of these issues can be very closely related to the social work practice. One of many issues that can evolve from the outstanding numbers of immigrants is the ability to adjust to this cultural environment. As a social worker and also preparing and doing your own research you can assist immigrants to be able to easily transition and adapt to this culture, as this can be a difficult task for many immigrants. Although the Portuguese rely heavily on their religion, and traditions, there are many social issues that plague this country as well. Many problems that can be addressed among the Portuguese culture are alcohol abuse, unemployment, homelessness, language barriers, and health problems. Most of these issues can be addressed among many of the immigrants. In helping social workers can provide support, volunteer hours, and even counseling. Social workers can also be intermediaries between employers and immigrants in search of work. Also in assisting with the language barriers that many immigrants face, Portuguese language courses can be provided along with many other occupational activities. In some countries information can be very scare about particular minority groups. A helpful way that social workers can obtain information about the Portuguese people is through Portugal forums. Forums will allow you to look at others people’s responses about Portugal people and give you an idea or background about the Portuguese people. Another way to obtain information about the Portuguese people would be to do your own research and find Portuguese families that will personally give you information and or background about the minority group. Social workers really should consider thinking about serving this minority group due to the vast numbers of immigrants also migrating to the United States. Although the Portuguese are not very prominent in our area, they are continuing to migrate to the Northeast in such places as California, Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. As this minority group continues to migrate to the United States, the numbers in this population is only sure to rise along with many social issues this minority group faces. As discussed before social workers can assist in making this transition process easier. Furthermore, areas recommended for further research in this minority group would be the education system, equality, and diversity amongst the Portuguese people.