The business of return migration is a phenomenon that historians have indeed begun to look at, but it is rather an ignored and underplayed story and one that we need to know more about.

The quote by David Levering Lewis — "The business of return migration is a phenomenon that historians have indeed begun to look at, but it is rather an ignored and underplayed story and one that we need to know more about" — highlights the significance of return migration as an important yet often overlooked subject in historical studies. Lewis emphasizes that while some attention has been given to this phenomenon, much remains to be explored and understood about the experiences, impacts, and motivations of people who migrate back to their places of origin.

The origin of this quote reflects Lewis’s work as a historian specializing in African-American history and broader social movements. His statement draws attention to the complexity of migration patterns, suggesting that the focus on migration often centers on initial departures rather than the equally meaningful return journeys. Return migration involves individuals or groups who, after spending time elsewhere, decide to come back, affecting social, economic, and cultural dynamics in both their original and new communities.

Lewis’s observation underscores the need for more research and awareness about how return migration shapes identities, economies, and societies. It is a call to historians and scholars to expand their scope beyond traditional migration narratives and recognize the significance of returnees’ contributions and challenges.

In summary, David Levering Lewis’s quote invites greater scholarly focus on return migration, an area that remains understudied despite its importance. Understanding this phenomenon better can provide deeper insights into migration’s full cycle and its effects on individuals and societies over time.