Abstract

The article addresses the results of a qualitative case study on migrant Bolivian women from the Aymara ethnic group residing in the Azapa Valley (in the Arica and Parinacota Region of northern Chile). Our objective is to analyze their experiences in their families of origin. To accomplish this, we first present the theoretical frameworks for the analysis, linking them to studies of gender relations and kinship in Aymara families. Second, we describe the methodology, synthesizing the profiles of the interviewed women and their families' migratory trajectories (or experiences). Third, we describe the context of the Azapa Valley near Arica. Fourth, we analyze the women's narratives about the sex-based division of labor within their families and the affective role of female figures -mainly grandmothers- in their childhood and adolescent experience. We conclude by reflecting on the importance of women in the family as well as the social and cultural capital they contribute to shaping migratory experiences.