Negotiating Changes to Maintain an Isan Ethnic Identity

Abstract

Recent research studies have rarely discussed the flexibility and complexity of the depiction of Thai or Lao Isan identity and their ambiguity under global changes. This study looked at how Thai or Lao Isan people deal with ethnic identity constraints imposed by changes and navigate their way to find them. This research was based on an historical ethno-symbolist approach. The findings revealed that Thai, or Lao Isan, is ethnically Lao from Laos and culturally navigates the world in which their forefathers lived. In search of their ethnic identity, they deal with changes through mental processes and the practice of Heet 12 and Kong 14 traditions, which serve as core values and the foundation for their spiritual stability. Symbolic representation in the form of visual art is also shown as proof of the attempt to preserve ethnic identity for diversity and as an insight into Thailand-Laos relations.