Description
Food is more than sustenance. Using a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods, this research analyzes the role of food among those who self-identity with Mexican heritage in San Diego, CA. Migrants living in the United States are separated from their home communities in Mexico, and food is an important way to connect to one’s heritage and identity. Memories of home and food involve all the senses and, in this research, evoke emotions of love and comfort. The research focuses on the preservation of Mexican identity and traditions in the U.S. while simultaneously allowing for new influences. Results show the importance of creating opportunities for nostalgic memories, which privilege childhood and inter-generational relationships, in order to pass Mexican identity and knowledge to the next generation. They highlight the strong ties between food, family, and home, as well as the agency and creativity of cultural performers.
