This research endeavors to unravel the intricate non-linear migratory trajectories of individuals hailing from the island of Santa Maria, Azores, as they journeyed to the cities of Cambridge and Somerville, Massachusetts. Within the broader framework of Atlantic diasporas, and through our engagement with the community, we uncover untold stories and explore the multifaceted factors influencing migration decisions, including economic opportunities, social networks, and cultural ties, shedding light on their experiences of migration, settlement, and adaptation to urban environments. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, our research methodology encompasses archival analysis, ethnographic fieldwork, and oral history interviews with community members, families, and representatives of local associations and clubs. By delving into a diverse array of sources, including official documents, personal narratives, and cultural artifacts, we aim to construct a comprehensive narrative that captures the complexity and nuances of Santa Maria Islanders' migratory histories, through the interplay between individual experiences and broader historical forces, elucidating the dynamic processes of identity negotiation and community formation among Santa Maria Islanders in Cambridge and Somerville. Moreover, by amplifying the voices of marginalized groups we aim to contribute to a more inclusive understanding of migration experiences and diasporic identities. Presenting our research at this conference provides an opportunity to share our findings, provoke critical dialogue, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. Ultimately, we seek to enrich the scholarly discourse on Atlantic migrations and contribute to a deeper appreciation of diasporic communities' diverse and dynamic nature in the modern world.

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This publication is an output of the following project(s):

• Ethnic heritage in the shadows: a collaborative ethnography of Azorean American resilience in Cambridge and Somerville, Massachusetts, USA