Words for the journey: reading and writing to manage grief in a fleeting population

Abstract

The objective of this article is to discuss the relevance of reading and writing as a tool of expression, reflection and emotional containment for the mobility population. The epistemic positioning of the research is based on a methodology of participatory action, whose socio-critical orientation was nourished by workshops, group interviews and constant accompaniment to the agents involved. Along these lines, the experience achieved by undertaking literacy workshops on grief in two shelters located in the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas is shown; both dedicated to the comprehensive care of migrants as they pass through the southern border of Mexico. Among the results achieved, the following stand out: 1) The reasons why reading and writing is considered a schooled and technocratic practice and 2) The liberating potential of reading and writing about grief becomes “words for the path” yet to be traveled: an alternative of psychological care for a fleeting population.