Procesos migratorios internos en la identidad cultural de la población afroecuatoriana e indígena de la ciudad de Machala

Abstract

The present research project "Internal migration processes in the cultural identity of the Afro-Ecuadorian and indigenous population of the city of Machala" corresponds to the field of sociology and anthropology, and its line of research is that of Society and Culture. This issue has been raised in the context of the qualification process of the Technical University of Machala (UTMACH). In the field of study, a great social problem was detected, since there is inequality and little appreciation by the Machaleños towards the culture of the indigenous and Afro-Ecuadorians who arrived in a massive process of migration. These situations occur due to the little knowledge and importance that is given to the customs and traditions of these ethnic groups settled in the territory of the Machala canton. For research purposes, the following objective has been proposed: To determine the socio-cultural impact that internal migratory processes have generated in the indigenous and Afro-Ecuadorian population settled in the city of Machala, based on the approaches of the symbolic interactionism theory, which makes reference to the fact that cultures are built from symbols and elements that are represented as customs and traditions generated in the interaction processes. The research work carried out has an empirical-inductive epistemological approach that is characterized by the generation of knowledge from the analysis of data obtained from individual experience to draw general conclusions. In addition, a qualitative methodological approach was used that allows to study the phenomenon in depth. In this framework, techniques and instruments such as the interview and bibliographic review were applied through which information, experiences and opinions were obtained. The results obtained showed that there is undervaluation and ignorance of the cultural elements of the indigenous and Afro-Ecuadorian populations by the Machaleños and the people of these groups. This is why these groups choose to stop practicing their customs and traditions. All this in a framework of exclusion and underestimation that violates their rights, preventing them from inserting themselves in the social sphere and in some cases in the workplace. Considering the complexity of the problem, the necessary measures have not been taken by the pertinent authorities to combat this social phenomenon, despite the fact that there are legal regulations such as the Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador or the Organic Law of Cultures. in planning instruments such as the “Todo una Vida” National Development Plan. On the other hand, organizations such as the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) and the Afro-Ecuadorian National Confederation (CNA), which support the rights and opportunities of these groups. Based on the results found, the “Program for the dissemination and appreciation of the customs, traditions and ways of life of indigenous and Afro-Ecuadorian populations in the city of Machala” has been proposed, which is aimed at people from the ethnic groups mentioned and the general population of Machala. The proposal includes awareness and appreciation activities, with the help of GAD Machala and the House of Culture, to promote an inclusive life, as well as a more harmonious and equitable society, where everyone has the same opportunities and recognition.