A Memória Viva do Último Quilombo: Tradição, Fé e Resistência na Amazônia! #ÚltimoQuilombo

The Last Quilombo: A Celebration of Heritage and Resistance

The Heart of the Amazon and Its People

• The community known as Erepecu, or the last quilombo, embodies resilience, faith, and ancestral heritage in the heart of the Amazon rainforest along the Trombetas River.

• This sacred territory resonates with memories of ancestors through celebrations and gestures of hope.

Cultural Workshop on Faith and Identity

• On September 24-25, 2025, a workshop titled "Memory of the Festivity of Our Lady Aparecida" was held to preserve history and reinforce community identity among quilombola descendants.

• Participants included men, women, youth, and elders who gathered to reconnect with their origins and strengthen their sense of belonging.

Bridging Past and Future

• Elders shared stories that connected past experiences with present realities, guiding younger generations towards a future rooted in faith and unity.

• The celebration honors those who escaped slavery to create a home filled with freedom in the forest. It combines sacred traditions with cultural expressions like dance and song.

Community Formation and Challenges

• The speaker recounts personal history from age 16 when they began forming their community amidst challenges posed by land ownership disputes. They started with seven families under leadership figures like Raimundo da Sucra Vieira.

• Initial efforts included building communal structures such as a chapel made from palm leaves which served as gathering places for sharing food and culture despite external pressures from authorities against their activities.

Overcoming Adversity for Education

• Despite facing obstacles from government claims over land use, the community persevered in establishing educational opportunities for children where none existed before. They cultivated crops to support themselves while advocating for their rights.

• Today’s generation benefits from improved access to education thanks to previous struggles; parents now feel honored seeing their children thrive academically within this resilient community context.

Legacy of Founders

• The speaker reflects on lost founding members who played crucial roles in establishing the community's foundation but left behind wisdom that continues to guide current residents toward progress despite historical hardships faced by earlier generations.

Strengthening Cultural Identity

• The recent workshop aimed not only at celebrating religious practices but also at revitalizing traditional knowledge while fostering deep reflections on black consciousness in 2025—reinforcing pride among those who maintain their rich heritage across generations.

My Life Story and the Island of Galça

Early Life and Family Background

• The speaker was born in 1944 and lost their father at a young age, being raised by their mother and brother.

• From the age of ten, they began working to support themselves, indicating a strong sense of responsibility early on.

• They worked in agriculture, planting crops like corn and watermelon, showcasing their connection to farming.

Personal Growth and Achievements

• The speaker expresses gratitude for not being a burden to their mother financially during childhood.

• They recount acquiring a canoe through hard work, symbolizing personal achievement and independence.

• The narrative shifts to the history of the Island of Galça, introducing local lore about its origins.

Historical Context of the Island

• The island's past is described with references to its changing landscape and wildlife brought by an individual named Baldoino Mello.

• A story unfolds about fishing practices on the island involving community members like Neco, illustrating local traditions.

Community Dynamics

• The speaker shares experiences from communal fishing activities that highlight cooperation among locals.

• They describe encounters with various sea creatures during these activities, emphasizing the richness of local biodiversity.

Reflections on Heritage and Tradition

• There are mentions of cultural beliefs surrounding certain locations on the island that evoke fear or respect among residents.

• The speaker reflects on storytelling as an essential part of preserving community history and knowledge.

Health Practices in the Community

• Discussion includes traditional health practices performed by women in the community who served as midwives.

• Acknowledgment is given to a family member's skills in herbal medicine despite her current inability to practice due to health issues.

This structured summary captures key moments from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference.

Community Gathering and Historical Reflection

Introduction to the Workshop

• The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and hope, emphasizing the collective desire to strengthen memory, reaffirm identity, and foster a sense of belonging within the quilombola community.

• Vander Lilsson, affectionately known as Bala, welcomed everyone at the event's start.

• Sr. Manuel Lucivaldo Siqueira, also known as Buchecha, outlined the workshop's purpose and initiated discussions.

Group Activities Focused on History

• Participants were divided into working groups tasked with listening to elders to recover the history of the community's foundation.

• Stories shared revealed that the first community center was relocated due to internal disagreements; memories included times of repression and resistance against threats faced by community members defending their rights.

Significant Historical Events

• A painful memory recounted was the murder of a local resident by IBAMA officials, which deeply impacts collective memory and justice sentiments in the last quilombo.

• The arrival of Nossa Senhora de Aparecida’s image marked significant cultural events; it highlighted the Catholic Church's role in shaping community identity.

Thematic Group Discussions

• After sharing emotional stories, participants regrouped into three thematic areas: Culture and Identity, Musicality and Memory, Ancestry.

• Culture and Identity: Focused on mapping cultural expressions like capoeira Força do Negro.

• Musicality: Explored historical processes behind celebrations for Nossa Senhora de Aparecida.

• Memory and Ancestry: Older members deepened historical research about their community.

Personal Reflections on Community Strengthening

• A participant reflected on personal loss from October 1994 when a brother died before any organized movement existed in their area; this tragedy galvanized community strength against oppression from IBDF.

• The death served as an impetus for growth despite initial setbacks; it led to increased unity among residents striving for better conditions.

Spiritual Journey Following Tragedy

• A priest accompanied members back to where a tragic event occurred; they held a mass there as part of healing efforts within the community.

• This experience underscored how such tragedies can lead to greater awareness and connection among people facing ongoing oppression.

Ongoing Challenges Faced by Community Members

• Despite past hardships, there remains sadness over not having adequate places for communal worship; however, these challenges have also fostered resilience within them.

• Participants shared personal anecdotes about life before tragedy struck—highlighting both struggles with nature (like fishing trips gone wrong), but also moments that brought them together amidst adversity.

Incident at the Beach

Description of the Event

• The narrative begins with an account of two individuals invading a beach during nighttime, creating chaos as they arrive. The speaker describes their surprise and confusion about the situation.

• As darkness fell, the invaders realized they had been spotted. They took positions on either side, unarmed and unaware of what was happening around them.

• One individual attempted to flee but ended up in a struggle, trying to defend himself with a makeshift weapon after being attacked. This led to further violence involving police intervention.

Aftermath and Response

• Following the incident, there was an alarm raised about what transpired at the beach, prompting police action and community concern over the safety of those involved. The body was later retrieved amidst confusion regarding identities.

• A local resident named Minduca was informed about the event while fishing nearby; he did not initially approach his own family’s port due to fear or uncertainty surrounding the incident's implications for his son.

Community Reaction

• The community reacted swiftly to assist those affected by transporting them to a hospital; however, logistical challenges hindered timely access due to transportation difficulties at that time.

• There were mentions of federal authorities arriving in response to heightened tensions within the community following this violent episode, indicating broader concerns about safety and law enforcement presence in local areas.

Personal Accounts and Reflections

• Individuals shared personal experiences related to fear stemming from encounters with law enforcement during this period; one person recounted how their daughter felt threatened by federal agents' presence in their area.

• Conversations shifted towards faith and community support as people engaged in discussions about God amidst these troubling events, highlighting resilience despite adversity faced by families living through such turmoil.

Daily Life Amidst Turmoil

• Despite ongoing challenges like food scarcity or threats from external forces (e.g., wildlife), families managed sustenance through agriculture—growing crops like melons and corn—which provided some stability amid chaos.

• Relationships among neighbors were emphasized as vital for emotional support; gatherings often occurred where stories were exchanged, reinforcing communal bonds even when facing hardships together over time.

Conclusion of Events

• The narrative concludes with reflections on how life continued post-tragedy; individuals remained vigilant yet hopeful while recounting moments that brought joy or sorrow within their close-knit communities despite external pressures affecting daily existence significantly over time leading up until now .

Who Killed Paru's Son?

The Incident and Key Figures

• Discussion begins with the question of who killed Paru's son, revealing that it was Feijão.

• Feijão is described as someone who managed a "chocadeira" (incubator), indicating his role in the community.

• Mention of Teresa, Feijão's mother, suggests familial connections and their significance in the narrative.

Community Activities and Spiritual Reflection

Workshop Resumption

• On September 25th, activities resumed with a collective prayer invoking spiritual protection for participants.

• A community diagnosis was conducted to reflect on social, mental, and spiritual challenges faced by members.

Strengthening Community Bonds

• Collective sharing sessions helped identify ways to enhance harmony and unity within the quilombo community.

• Planning for the Nossa Senhora de Aparecida festival was done collaboratively, emphasizing community autonomy.

Cultural Heritage and Tradition

Festival Preparations

• Afternoon activities focused on organizing the festival for Nossa Senhora de Aparecida, blending faith with cultural traditions.

• The event showcased how culture and spirituality are intertwined in preserving history and identity.

Personal Reflections on Loss

Personal Experiences

• A personal account reveals feelings of confusion following a family tragedy involving a brother’s death in 1994.

• The speaker reflects on past meetings held after this loss but struggles to recall specific dates or details.

Community Development Over Time

Evolution of Community Spaces

• Discussion about decisions made regarding where to build communal structures based on family presence in certain areas.

• The establishment of Rossaquia at the end of 1994 marks significant progress in community organization efforts.

Leadership Dynamics

• Insights into leadership roles within the church highlight transitions between different coordinators over time.

Challenges Faced by Leaders

Responsibilities and Growth

• The speaker recounting their experience as a coordinator emphasizes challenges faced while managing community tasks.

Historical Context

• Reflections on early church gatherings illustrate foundational moments that shaped current practices within the community.

Reflections on Community and Tradition

Childhood Memories and Family Ties

• The speaker reminisces about living with their grandmother, Teresa Reves, highlighting the importance of family connections in their upbringing.

• They describe a transition from being single to engaging in community activities, including prayer and organizing events at a local chapel.

Building Community Connections

• A discussion arises about finding a priest for community support; the speaker mentions Father Jani as a key figure who could help establish religious practices.

• The challenges faced in accessing the community due to restrictions imposed by an individual named Beto are noted, emphasizing obstacles in building connections.

Journey to Establish Religious Practices

• The speaker recounts an adventure involving transportation issues while trying to bring Father Jani to the community, illustrating the commitment to fostering spiritual growth.

• Upon arrival, Father Jani participates in evening prayers and celebrates mass, marking significant moments for the community's spiritual life.

Strengthening Faith Through Challenges

• The speaker reflects on how they sought further engagement with Father Jani after his initial visit, demonstrating a desire for deeper religious education within the community.

• They share experiences of learning prayers and rituals that were previously unfamiliar, showcasing personal growth alongside communal development.

Celebrating Cultural Heritage

• The narrative shifts towards preparations for festivities honoring Nossa Senhora de Aparecida, indicating strong cultural ties within the community.

• Descriptions of communal efforts during celebrations reveal vibrant traditions that foster unity and joy among residents.

Community Contributions During Festivities

• Details about transporting the image of Nossa Senhora de Aparecida highlight collective participation and devotion during religious processions.

• The collaborative spirit is evident as members contribute food items and resources for celebrations, reinforcing bonds through shared responsibilities.

Community Celebrations and Religious Practices

The Role of Catechesis in Community Life

• The speaker reflects on the community gatherings, emphasizing the importance of catechesis led by a priest who taught children about the Bible and respect for family.

• The priest often brought others to educate the community on baptism, marriage, and religious practices due to their limited knowledge.

• Financial management during events was handled by the community itself, highlighting a simple yet joyful approach to celebrations without modern monetary influences.

Cultural Traditions and Festivities

• Community festivities were characterized by simplicity; there were no extravagant parties or large-scale music events—only small gatherings with recorded music.

• The speaker describes how these gatherings fostered a sense of togetherness among community members despite their modesty.

Procession and Celebration of Faith

• A significant cultural event involved a fluvial procession that illuminated the night sky with lights and fireworks, symbolizing faith within the community.

• Young people participated actively in this tradition by releasing promise boats as part of their devotion to Lavinha, their patroness.

Musical Expressions of Devotion

• A hymn sung during celebrations expresses deep devotion to Lavinha, reflecting communal love and reverence for their faith.

Reflections on Personal History

• Following the festive activities, a solemn mass took place, reinforcing spiritual connections within the community.

• The speaker shares personal reflections about life challenges while calling for collective prayer support from fellow community members.

Family Background and Community Roots

• The speaker recounts familial history, mentioning parents' origins from Ceará and how they settled in Fartura while raising five children in a quilombola environment.

• Emphasizes strong family ties within the local culture as well as gratitude for surviving children amidst loss.

This structured summary captures key themes from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference.

Childbirth and Traditional Midwifery Practices

Early Experiences with Childbirth

• The speaker recounts learning midwifery from her mother at a young age, emphasizing the importance of familial knowledge transfer in traditional practices.

• She describes being approached by miners who sought her expertise as a midwife, highlighting the community's reliance on local knowledge for childbirth.

Knowledge of Childbirth

• The speaker confidently explains how she knows when a child will be born, showcasing her experience and intuition regarding labor timing.

• A narrative about assisting a daughter-in-law during childbirth illustrates the practical application of her skills and the communal aspect of birthing.

Remedies and Support During Labor

• The speaker discusses administering remedies to women in labor, indicating her role not just as a midwife but also as a caregiver providing emotional support.

• She shares an instance where her assistance was crucial for a woman experiencing complications, reinforcing the significance of traditional medicine in childbirth.

Community Perceptions and Challenges

• There is mention of skepticism from medical professionals regarding women's ability to give birth naturally, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards traditional practices.

• The speaker lists various women she has assisted over time, illustrating the extensive network of relationships built through her work as a midwife.

Reflections on Aging and Practice

• As she ages, the speaker expresses reluctance to continue practicing midwifery due to physical demands but acknowledges its importance in her life.

• Discussion shifts to herbal remedies used during childbirth; she reflects on both knowledge retention and cultural beliefs surrounding these practices.

Reflections on Personal Experiences and Cultural Heritage

Descriptions of Encounters and Memories

• The speaker describes a moment involving a seal on the land, emphasizing its beauty and the vivid imagery associated with it.

• A narrative unfolds about lighting a fire, suggesting an interaction with nature and possibly a spiritual or cultural significance tied to these actions.

• The speaker recounts experiences of fear among individuals in a canoe, hinting at deeper themes of survival and community dynamics during challenging times.

Family History and Community Life

• The speaker shares memories of raising a girl named Cecília amidst communal living, highlighting the importance of family ties and shared experiences within their community.

• An encounter with a mysterious man is described, showcasing elements of folklore or local beliefs that intertwine with personal narratives.

Cultural Identity and Historical Context

• The speaker expresses feelings of fear related to supernatural visions encountered in their past, indicating how cultural beliefs shape perceptions of reality.

• A reflection on love is presented through poetic language, revealing emotional connections to heritage while also addressing personal struggles.

Ancestry and Community Roots

• Introduction to the speaker's lineage reveals connections to quilombola ancestry, emphasizing pride in heritage while discussing familial relationships.

• Details about grandparents' migration from Cachoeira Porteira provide context for understanding historical movements within communities.

Childhood Memories Amidst Change

• The arrival of mining activities marks a significant change in lifestyle; the speaker recalls freedom in movement before this disruption occurred.

• Education becomes a focal point as the speaker reflects on challenges faced due to limited access to schooling during childhood years.

Struggles Against External Forces

• The impact of mining companies is discussed; families had to hide their belongings from authorities, illustrating resistance against external pressures affecting traditional ways of life.

• Nostalgia for simpler times is expressed as the speaker reminisces about fishing practices taught by their father before societal changes altered their way of living.

Living and Learning in the Community

Early Education and Family Background

• The speaker recounts living with their mother while studying, having learned to read at home from a young age. They progressed directly to the second grade without attending preschool or first grade.

• The speaker identifies as quilombola, sharing that their siblings remained in the area during demographic surveys by IBGE. Their father later moved to another location after separating from their mother.

Life After Father's Relocation

• The father established a new life on a property called Terra Preta, where he farmed crops like potatoes and watermelons. The speaker visited him during school holidays until his passing due to a stroke three years later.

Community Formation and Challenges

• The speaker discusses the origins of their community, noting that it was relocated due to flooding issues and disputes over land ownership. This led to the establishment of a new settlement.

• A key figure in the community, Maria Antônia, advocated against restrictions imposed by environmental authorities (IBAMA), asserting their right to remain despite challenges.

Community Development and Changes

• Initial efforts by community members included building homes together; however, some residents left due to restrictions on livestock keeping, leading to decreased population density in the area.

• Currently, only a few people reside in the community year-round; it becomes more active during specific events like religious festivities.

Cultural Significance of Festivities

• School activities keep some vibrancy in the community as students attend daily; however, nights are quiet. The speaker mentions temporary housing arrangements while working at the local school.

Celebrating Tradition: The Role of Festivals

Conclusion of Festivities

• On October 4th, traditional celebrations concluded with symbolic acts such as raising and lowering a mast—representing unity and gratitude within the Last Quilombo community.

Cultural Resilience

• Music plays an essential role in commemorating local traditions; it reflects both resistance and hope among community members who continue fighting for their identity amidst challenges faced throughout history.