Julian Jun Abe

MSc Social Anthropology, 2023

I am a social anthropologist specializing in cultural hybridity, ethnic identity, and human rights. Currently pursuing an MSc in Social Anthropology at the University of Oxford, my research explores the decoupling of Hawaiian ethnic identity from cultural kinship, revealing how emotional ties formed through cultural practices like hula enable non-Hawaiians to be seen as cultural kin, despite not sharing Hawaiian ancestry. Also holding a BA in Digital Media and Society from the Department of the Sociological Studies at the University of Sheffield.

My research interest also includes labour migrants, particularly those working on longline tuna fishing boats in the Pacific Ocean, which addresses the complex dynamics of mobility and confinement faced by these migrants under limited maritime laws.

In addition to my academic work, I am actively involved in Hawaiian cultural practices, particularly hula dancing, and participate in the University of Oxford’s volleyball club.