Rasgos identitarios y estigma: la nueva ruralidad en San José Tzal

Abstract

This article focuses on social and cultural changes occurring since the 1980s in San Jose Tzal, a small town in the outskirts of Merida, Yucatan, that have been caused by its rapid urbanization. For my analysis I will describe some of their day-to-day practices that have maintained and redefined their economy, family ties and sense of community. I will also analyze the development of certain “hidden” mechanisms of social awareness that help San Jose’s residents restrain from certain behaviours so as to avoid being stigmatized in the city.