The perception of the ethnic identity of the Irish Travellers

Abstract

This article examines the changing ethnic identity of Irish Travellers, an indigenous, traditionally nomadic group in Ireland with unique linguistic and cultural characteristics. Using fieldwork and unstructured interviews, the study reveals how their identity is adapting amidst social and cultural change. It highlights the fluidity of Traveller identity as it is affected by globalisation, societal integration and efforts to maintain traditional values. Historically, their identity has been suppressed by the state, which has tended to categorise them as a social group. The research highlights the incomplete assimilation of Travellers and the eventual recognition of their ethnic identity in 2017, driven by advocacy groups and international organisations. Despite the loss of their nomadic lifestyle, informants express a strong sense of belonging to the Traveller community. The study concludes with the wider implications of these findings for understanding the dynamics of ethnic identity in minority groups.

Keywords

• irish travellers
• ireland
• ethnic identity
• ethnic minority
• cultural elements