Mixtec transnational migration facts for kids
Mixtec transnational migration is when Mixtec people have moved back and forth between Mexico and the United States. This has been happening for more than three generations.
This movement shows how a group's cultural identity can stay strong, even when people live in different places. For the Mixtec, moving hasn't made them lose their culture. Instead, it has helped their culture spread and become even stronger.
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Mixtec People and Their Journeys
The Mixtec are an indigenous group from southern Mexico. They have a long history of moving to different places. This movement is often for work and to find better opportunities.
Many Mixtec people have moved to various parts of Mexico and the United States. They are one of the largest groups of migrants from Mexico living in the United States. Other groups like the Zapotecs and Triqui also have large communities.
Where Do Mixtecs Live Now?
You can find large Mixtec communities in cities near the border, like Tijuana, Baja California, and San Diego. Many also live deeper inside the United States.
For example, in 2011, about 150,000 Mixtec people lived in California. Another 25,000 to 30,000 lived in New York City. This shows how far their communities have spread.
Why Do Mixtecs Migrate?
Moving to the United States is an important way for Mixtec families to earn money. They often send money back home to their families in Mexico. This money is called "remittances." Between 1984 and 1988, these remittances were a very large amount, helping many families.
Staying Connected Across Borders
Mixtec communities are often called "transnational" or "transborder." This means they keep strong connections between their original homes and their new homes. They keep their social ties, traditions, and culture alive, even when living in different countries.
For many years, experts who study cultures (called anthropologists) have seen how people like the Mixtec move between countries. They build strong links that connect their communities across borders. This helps them keep their unique identity and culture strong.