A definition of ‘belonging’ will emerge gradually in the way this word is actually used by participants in their interviews. Initially, we can say that belonging refers to the felt experience that one is accepted; even one’s difference is taken into account and welcomed. In the context of this discussion, ‘to belong’ suggests being native to, to have a right of habitation, notions of equality and connection rather than feeling superfluous or antagonistic. A very homogenous and conforming culture provides particularly difficult terrain in which to take root.
