And Yet It Moves: Linguistic and Identity Mobilities and Territorialities of Quichua and Its Speakers (Phase 1)

This project addresses the transformation of the relationship between the Kichwa language, identity, and territory in central and northern Ecuador, challenging the traditional view that anchors the language to static rural identities and communities. Historically, indigenous language has been considered a strong marker of ethnicity, but recent census data indicates that a significant percentage of those identifying as indigenous no longer speak an indigenous language, signaling a de-communalization and individualization of identities. The research focuses on how contemporary mobility practices and the deployment of 'modern' experiences by speakers have altered the perception of Kichwa as a purely rural and traditional language. It seeks to understand how the de-re-territorialization of Kichwa functions and whether these processes contribute to its revitalization. The primary methodology is anthropological, employing permanent ethnography (participant observation and in-depth interviews), complemented by a sociolinguistic survey and the collection of life histories from speakers and self-identified youth. Comparative work based on the researcher's experience with Quechua scripturality in the South Andean region will also be incorporated.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>The main objective of this project is to analyze and explain the complex dynamics of mobility and territoriality associated with the Kichwa language and its speakers in the central and northern sierra regions of Ecuador. The research seeks to understand how these processes of de-re-territorialization influence the vitality and potential revitalization of the language.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Heritage and culture