The spatial segregation and the identity of the Mapuche immigrants to the Region

Abstract

This article analyzes the spatial segregation and the identity of the Mapuche immigrants to the Region Metropolitana (Santiago). The spatial segregation has a negative impact on the Mapuches, as it does on all of the urban poor people. Nevertheless segregation has important positive effects concerning the conservation and renovation of the Mapuche identity and culture, and also it gives them political strength. It is important to acknowledge these positive effects of spatial segregation to better understand this phenomenon not only as an expression of class inequalities. This article includes reflections on the subject derived from a qualitative investigation focused on territoriality in Cerro Navia, Santiago.