Más allá de la movilización

La migración como un proceso de transformación cultural e identitaria

Abstract

This opinion column examines migration as both physical movement and a process of cultural and identity transformation in the Colombian context. It compares two migration experiences from different historical periods: Japanese migration to Colombia during the twentieth century and the internal migration of a young woman who, like many young people from her region, moved from Tumaco to Cali in the twenty-first century. This comparison shows that although people migrate for different reasons, they often share similar experiences and face common challenges. To explore these cases, the column discusses the concepts of territory, culture, and migration from both geographical and sociocultural perspectives. It argues that migration is a continuous process of negotiating between one's culture of origin and the social and cultural dynamics of the new place. It also highlights changes in everyday practices, social relationships, and ways of living in a territory. Overall, the column suggests that migration is a complex process that goes beyond physical movement, leading to the reshaping and integration of culture in different contexts.

Keywords: Migration, culture, territory, identity, cultural adaptation.