Diversidad étnica e identidad en la llanura costera del istmo oaxaqueño

Abstract

In this article I develop an argument that allows to understand the Oaxacan Isthmus as a site of convergence among multiple and culturally diverse groups. Moreover, this article discusses the historical background of the towns and cities found in the isthmus as well as the economic structure that allows for their reproduction not only as ethnic groups but as individual communities. The author argues that through the enduring relationship among the communities found in the isthmus the cultural manifestations of each group converge, intertwine and mutually influence each other until each group imposes upon the other. In order to understand the inter-ethnic relationships in the isthmus not only requires analyzing the general characteristics of each group, but also entails examining information obtained from each community in the isthmus especially in the light of new national and international processes which are irreversibly affecting the structure and composition of groups in the isthmus. Underdeveloped transportation networks for agricultural and fishing products, marginalization, regional unemployment, and migration, among others, are aspects that make the reality that is revealed in the irremediable advance facing groups that must create survival and reproduction strategies in order to maintain themselves as communities. In light of the differentiation among ethnic groups, and the relationships among different ethnic groups, Horizontal asymmetries define the manifestation of inter-ethnic relations in the isthmus. In analyzing the socio-ethnic-national relations among groups in the isthmus, it is noted that there exists flagrant inequalities in accessing the wealth that is generated in the country. These inequalities are manifested in a poor quality of life, lack of education, little access to communication networks as well as other important variables. Interestingly, some ethnic groups have a privileged position in the isthmus enjoying access to communication and commercial networks, as well as exercising political influence among the ethnic groups, while other ethnic groups are excluded from these luxuries, not only due to their indigenous stature, but because they are subordinated by the domination that other ethnic groups exercise. Key to the current discussion about this area of Oaxaca is the exploitation and appropriation of the considerable range of natural resources found in the isthmus. Not only are the system of lakes in the Tehuantepec Gulf, the nature reserves in Chimalapas and the cattle ranching in the Mixe important sites of economic exploitation that have strengthened the power of local groups, but they are also sites of strategic control for the future development of Mexico. In the Oaxacan Isthmus exists valuable natural resources in water, forests, and endemic species that can play an important role in the regional and national economy. The question remains to understand which social or legal mechanisms have been put in place in order to define the beneficiaries of the natural riches found in the isthmus.