Impressions on migration and returned migrants

Abstract

Living in Gozo, one is aware of the impact migration had and still has on our culture and economy. There is hardly a Gozitan who has no relatives abroad. For over a hundred years and up till a few decades ago, migration was a central issue in Gozo. There were plenty of people leaving and some others returning after a number of years, Anyone walking along the streets in Gozo, particularly those in certain villages like Nadur and Ghajnsielem would surely note the numerous house names indicating places overseas like for example: 'God Bless America', 'Maple leaf', 'Australia', 'Ontario House'. During feasts and celebrations, national flags of foreign countries fly over many Gozitan houses. Many returned migrants bring a small fortune and often also a pension from overseas. One notes the grandeur of most of their houses or at least their particular style. Many are proud of the country which served as their providential second home, and choose to keep their second citizenship as well.