Experiences and beliefs of Colla women from the Atacama region

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the practices and knowledge of indigenous women who are social leaders of the Chilean Atacama region. Through life stories, the research participants narrate experiences and beliefs associated
with their identity as Colla women. The narrative exercise allows us to delve into other topics such as migratory processes, cultural expressions, social relations and power dynamics within their communities. The research is based on the Grounded Theory of Glaser and Strauss (1970),
which is why we turn to its theoretical and methodological aspects in the approach and analysis of the subject under investigation.  The knowledge provided by this study contributes to the cultural heritage of the Colla people and to the development of studies and research that give value
to indigenous women from the north of the country.