Dynamics in Social Space and Placemaking : the Case of Integration of Somalis in Barron, Wisconsin

Abstract

Immigration to Western Wisconsin is dynamic and challenging for the immigrant and non-immigrant communities alike. Somali refugees, who settled in Western Wisconsin, settled particularly in the Barron, Wisconsin area. Participation in placemaking is an important element of belonging. The research explores sociospatial relationships between recent immigrants and the host community to understand the nature of, and the extent to which Somalis are making Western Wisconsin home.