Ethno-racial identification in urban Peru

Abstract

Abstract This study examines ethno-racial identification among urban Peruvians, with special attention to those who are at risk of ‘de-Indianizing’. Specifically, we use a nationally representative survey to describe how city residents classify themselves and how self-classifications are associated with primordial and circumstantial characteristics. Consistent with official statistics, a large majority identifies as mestizo. However, the share that self-identifies as indigenous is much smaller than expected from official language-based criteria or from appearance alone. Moreover, identification is rooted in primordial characteristics associated with descent and the family-of-origin's linguistic environment, particularly for those with indigenous ancestries. Identification is also linked to socio-economic circumstances and perceived discrimination.