Introduction. Creating a Space of One's Own: New Approaches to Spaces of Belonging of Women Exiles in Latin America

The cover image of this special issue presents a flower's heart and petals against a green background, providing a visual representation of this monograph's central premise. 1 The petals form a circle around the flower's center, symbolizing the "place of one's own" that women create in exile.These petals form a network without touching or enclosing the heart, creating an open space.This open space constitutes our focal point -the place that women in exile create, enabling them to develop in their new environment and establish an identity under conditions of forced displacement.The petals represent various factors that enable the creation of this space: the contacts these women establish, their sources of inspiration, or the elements they incorporate into their work.Whether these petals represent references to works of art, personal or professional relationships, or cultural influences, they collectively create a space where displaced women can construct their own places of belonging.1 The editors wish to express their sincere gratitude to coordination assistant Merrichel Glenda Gonzlez, whose dedication, warmth, and professionalism were fundamental during the initial phase of this special issue.Her willingness to address every detail