ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to explore some of the linguistic implications for policy makers and for social cohesion faced with the (re)integration of migrants, especially young people, who have returned to Mexico, either with their families or after their own failed efforts to settle long term in the US. Focusing on the general theme of this volume—to investigate and analyze Spanish as a minority/heritage language—the intention was initially to explore the impact of this return on youngsters with a heritage Spanish background. What has become increasingly evident during this research is the lack of awareness and the scarcity of studies into the impact of ‘return’ on language behaviour and attitudes. The language issues and experiences, therefore, of this particular group have needed to be uncovered and brought to the surface. Research is at an early stage with limited data to answer some of the questions about language practices of returnees at a micro level. Instead, I will focus on the macro issues of language interaction and attitudes.
