TERRITORY, HISTORY AND IDENTITY: THE COLLECTIVE RESISTANCE OF THE TAPUYA KARIRI PEOPLE

Abstract

Indigenous history is marked by a violent colonization process that destroyed their cultures and identities. Even though these historical processes of violence, the Tapuya Kariri indigenous people have resisted. The aim of this article is so to learn about the resistance practices of the Tapuya Kariri people of Gameleira Village, in Serra da Ibiapaba, Ceará. Through oral history it was possible to understand the importance of political organization, of collectivity in demanding rights and valuing their knowledge and experiences. Resistance not just in the struggle for land, but for belonging, recognition and appreciation of culture. The Tapuya's resistance practices present strategies for recognizing their ethnic identity and territorial rights. The victories of the Tapuya Kariri in this article highlighted by one of their leadership, such as the implementation of the Indigenous School, the creation of the Tapuya Kariri Indigenous Association, the conquest of a Family Health Center are the results of the continuous struggle of a people.