3 - Place in practices by mobility: A Case Study of the Lohok Tribe in Taiwan

In contemporary discussions of indigenous development, the concept of "tradition" deserves to be redefined. The indigenous culture's "tradition" appears to be fixed within specific temporal and spatial contexts, seemingly becoming a static and passive entity. However, space inherently serves as a temporary repository for social mobility, continually expanding and transforming within the interweaving of individuals and relational networks. Through the agency of mobility, the patterns of place and space become more intricate. Taking the Lohok tribe as an example, various actors engage in mobility, including indigenous individuals who have grown up in the region, or moved to urban for education or employment opportunities, short-term tourists, and non-indigenous long-term residents. Through their practices and shared experiences, they collectively shape and sustain what is referred to as the "tribal" place.
Past research suggested that such diverse movements would lead to homogenization, blur tribal boundaries and ultimately erase the sense of place. This study compiles the interview expressions and descriptions of the place from different movers who reveal that place boundaries become more stable due to the participation of various mobile actors. In this case, the involvement of different groups brings together diverse values and cultural knowledge systems, while also showcasing the agency of the tribe. Through discourse and discussion, they filter perspectives and demonstrate the potential for modern indigenous tribal place practices.