Cruz da Menina: processos de luta e reafirmação étnica quilombola em Dona Inês/Paraíba

Abstract

This monograph aims to investigate the process of ethnic reaffirmation of the quilombola community Cruz da Menina, Dona Inês/PB, through its historical formation, its customs, cultural practices and narratives (individual and collective). It is highlighted the way in which race, territory, kinship and health are evidenced and can compose this construction process. We carried out a qualitative ethnographic research, using techniques such as: participant observation, semi-structured interviews, conversation circles and participation in community festivities, for 2 years and 11 months (June 2020 to may 2023). With the Covid-19 pandemic, it was necessary to develop strategies to carry out the planned actions and, above all, to redirect the research. It was possible to observe the way in which the ethnic identity of the community is built from their relationship with the other residents of the city, together with the process of territoriality and culture; as well as the way in which the process of resistance and ethnic reassurance was organized in response to the structural, institutional and epistemic racism present in the city. The impact of these processes on the forms of health care and the way in which the UBS was received by the community was also evident, based on the (social) impact that it generated in the lives of residents. This study was polished through shared stories, with looks and concerns provoked in the field, with “no” and adventures, which intertwine race, territory, religion, among other aspects.