Agricultural identity of Indigenous Salasacas in Ecuador

Abstract

Latin America’s Indigenous are as varied as the place they live in and focus on past, beliefs, and culture. In Ecuador, the Indigenous Salasacas are famous for being strict in their cultural preservation, language, customs, agricultural practices, and costumes, which are considered unique. This ethnographic study aimed to understand the Salasacas’s agricultural identity across different generations and reports the experiences and perceptions of 12 Salasacas participants. Participants reported that many Salasacas have changed from agriculture to other economic activities, such as textiles, due to the limited agricultural programs and the influence of Hispanic culture. Participants informed the researchers that cultural pride and unity are fundamental Salasacas traits. They encourage new generations to continue studying to overcome racial issues with academic preparation. Program implementers must know how to honor Indigenous knowledge while introducing new knowledge and consider participants’ characteristics, such as age and gender, which is imperative for successful outcomes.