Semiotic Citizenship and the Construction of Belonging in Multilingual Public Spaces
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71435/688511Keywords:
Semiotic Citizenship , Multilingual Public Space , BelongingAbstract
Purpose: This study investigates how multilingual public signs construct semiotic citizenship and shape the formation of belonging within multilingual public spaces in Yogyakarta, Indonesia by integrating Linguistic Landscape Analysis, Multimodal Social Semiotic Analysis, and the concept of semiotic citizenship.
Subjects and Methods: An interpretive qualitative multiple case study was conducted between April and May 2024 across Malioboro Street, the Kraton Yogyakarta Heritage Area, and Beringharjo Traditional Market. Data comprised 326 multilingual public signs, 30 semi structured interviews, systematic field observations, and policy documents. The data were analyzed using Linguistic Landscape Analysis, Multimodal Social Semiotic Analysis, thematic analysis, and methodological triangulation.
Results: Four interconnected themes emerged. Multilingual visibility reflected institutional, cultural, and commercial functions rather than language diversity alone. Multimodal semiotic resources, including language, typography, colour, symbols, and spatial design, represented identity and institutional authority. Recognition, accessibility, and participation formed the sequential dimensions through which semiotic citizenship was negotiated in everyday urban life. These processes collectively fostered belonging by strengthening cultural attachment, social inclusion, and civic engagement. The findings extend linguistic landscape research by demonstrating that multilingual signs function as dynamic semiotic resources rather than passive informational artifacts.
Conclusions: The study proposes the Semiotic Citizenship Pathway Model, explaining how multilingual visibility evolves through semiotic representation, recognition, accessibility, and participation to construct belonging. The model offers a theoretical framework for understanding multilingual public communication and provides practical implications for developing more inclusive language policies and urban communication strategies.
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