International Migration and the Use of Remittances in the Local Sociocultural Structure in Oaxaca, Mexico

Abstract

This article explores the role of remittances in the cargo system in rural Mexico. Instead of focusing only on the economic function of remittances based on a dualistic approach (positive-negative or productive-unproductive), the author illustrates why sociocultural,political, and economic effects should be carefully examined. Remittances used to perform local communal duties in the cargo system can revitalize the traditional culture and political structure in the community by reinforcing local identity. Using the remittances for cargo duties strengthens the sense of belonging among villagers. International migrants who use remittances to complete their cargo obligation in the community are able to acquire prestige when they return or visit home,because they have not neglected their communal duties while working in the U.S. Therefore, the author argues that the use of remittances in a seemingly unproductive or negative way may in fact facilitate the maintenance of the community, local cultural customs and the civil-religious hierarchy.