Methodology

There has been little research on how indigenous migrant communities have been impacted by globalization. We believe that a comparative analysis through both the lenses of convergence and divergence will add an additional dimension to the current body of knowledge that future researchers may build upon.

Literature Reviews

The first research strategy we implemented for this project was a preliminary document study. We reviewed literature in three primary categories: (1) Latino identity in the United States, (2) networks and identity among the Native Mesoamerican diaspora from México, and (3) indigenous traditions in the modern world. The purpose of which was to help our research team explore the historical, economic, demographic, social and political context behind the migration of Native Mesoamericans from México to the United States. Continued research was conducted to identify the role of family, language and spirituality in the attempts of local Mixtec migrants to preserve their native traditions and cultures in a new land.

Interviews

Interviews were our second research strategy employed in this project. We attempted to contact researchers in the Native American Studies departments of local universities, including the California State University of Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and San José (CSUSJ). We also reached out to regional organizations who serve indigenous populations, such as Native American cultural centers, hospitals and farm worker advocates. Thirdly, we interviewed local individuals who identify as Native or live and work among Indigenous migrants in order to locate the populations as well as to understand the migrants’ integration into and the perceptions held by the greater community in which they are immersed. This is also important to understand what sets this community apart, what external pressures are being exerted on this community, and what measures are being taken to preserve traditions within the diaspora.

Case Studies

The third and most critical research strategy was a case study. The goal was to identify a group, family or individual who allowed us to spend time with them to observe, record, investigate and perhaps participate in traditional Native Mesoamerican customs practiced here on California’s Central Coast, which we did with the annual Sunrise Ceremony in protest of Thanksgiving and in solidarity with those who’ve been doing the same on Alcatraz since 1975 and in honor of the American Indian Occupation of the island from 1969 to 1971. First-hand, indigenous accounts of cultural preservations are key in legitimizing the authority, accuracy and appropriateness of any ethnographic research of Native peoples. The subject of the case study will serve as our guide and window into this community.