Identity, Language, and Heritage among Circassians in Jordan: An Analytical Study of Cultural Continuity and Change

This study investigates the cultural reality of Circassians in Jordan through a descriptive–analytical, cross-sectional survey. A structured questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample of 753 participants to assess five cultural domains: identity and belonging, customs and traditions, music and dance, language preservation, and traditional clothing. Additionally, brief non-participant observations at community events, classes, and rehearsals were conducted to triangulate survey findings on identity, language, and heritage practices. Overall perceptions of Circassian culture were high. Domain rankings showed the highest means for identity and belonging, followed by customs and traditions, then music and dance; language preservation was moderate, and traditional clothing ranked lowest. Gender differences favored males on the overall cultural assessment, while the traditional clothing domain favored females. Age differences favored the 18–29 group. By education, respondents with secondary education scored higher than postgraduates in music and dance, and bachelor’s degree holders scored higher than postgraduates on the same domain. These results highlight strong symbolic identity alongside uneven maintenance of practice-based heritage, especially language. Implications include prioritizing language revitalization, community programming that sustains practice-based heritage (dance, music, attire), and heritage education initiatives tailored by age and gender to strengthen intergenerational transmission within Jordanian schools and community centers.