Emoji as a Non-Verbal Language Created for Jinuo Minority, China

Abstract

The Jinuo community, officially recognized as an ethnic minority in China in June 1979, represents the final of 55 ethnic groups identified apart from the Han Chinese. This small group, notable for its lack of a written language and reliance on oral tradition, possesses distinct cultural traits. However, it currently confronts the challenges of Sinicization and potential cultural extinction. Larry A. Samovar, a renowned scholar in non-verbal expression, observed that in face-to-face interactions, verbal behaviors communicate only about 35% of social meanings, with the remainder conveyed through non-verbal communication (NVC). Additionally, the use of emojis as a form of non-verbal language (NVL) has gained significant global popularity in online communication. This research aims to explore the utilization of NVC in preserving Jinuo culture, particularly focusing on emoji communication. The study's objectives include a detailed analysis of the NVC practices within the Jinuo community, aboriginals' usage of emojis in communication, and the imperative of developing unique emojis as a NVL tailored for the Jinuo. The research initially developed 2 emojis that encapsulate key cultural symbols of the Jinuo, such as the Jinuo Big Drum and Birth Myths. The new design is intended not just for the Jinuo members but also to spark broader outgroup public interest in Jinuo culture, both among ingroupers and outgroupers. This investigation marks the first exploration into emoji creation specifically for the Jinuo, highlighting its potential as a tool for cultural preservation and awareness.