Undergraduate Research & Scholarships

Sheyla Santiago Social Science

The Impact of Temporary Migration on the Cultural Identity of Indigenous Oaxacans

Scholars Journal

This project explores how transnational migration shapes the cultural identity, adaptation, and resilience of Indigenous Oaxacans across three generations. It focuses on the first generation (born and raised in Oaxaca), the 1.5 generation (those who migrated in childhood due to economic necessity), and the second generation (born in the U.S. but raised with strong Oaxacan roots). The study examines how migration-related stress, discrimination, and cultural displacement affect their mental health and connection to Indigenous identity. Despite the significant presence of Oaxacan communities in the U.S., there is a noticeable lack of research exploring their lived experiences, intergenerational identity shifts, and psychological well-being. By centering the voices of community members, this research highlights the resilience strategies Oaxacans use to preserve language, traditions, and community ties. The findings aim to inform broader conversations on migration, Indigenous heritage, and the importance of culturally rooted support.