Rarámuri male identities in the face of migration and survival

Abstract

The vulnerability and poverty that prevail in the Sierra Tarahumara, in Chihuahua, Mexico force its inhabitants to migrate in search of better living conditions. This migration has repercussions on gender identities and relations. On the basis of an extensive bibliographical review and fieldwork undertaken with migrant Rarámuri laborers, the identity and gender transformations historically experienced by males belonging to this ethnic group are analyzed. Particular attention is paid to the changes derived from their participation as a work force in migration circuits associated with agro-industry, and the processes of adaptation or resistance to the flexible accumulation regime that exploits, excludes and marginalizes them.