Middle Xingu Observatory: studies for co-creation of representations of peoples and territories in decolonial perspectives

Abstract

Based on the idea of producing narratives differently in the light of historical exploration and the context of the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, this article presents reflections on the development of cartography in a collaborative effort, starting from the second half of 2020 onwards. This work presents the Awaete Assurini people of the Middle Xingu and their history charged with excessive violence and obliteration resulting from the colonization process and their struggle to preserve socio-cultural practices linked to their ancestry, in contrast with non-Indigenous conceptions. In essence, the goal is to boost their trajectory of empowerment and struggle through relationships with people and the environment. Furthermore, as the Awaete worldview offers alternative ways to access and establish a relationship with the environment and other social organizations, it also developed valuable interaction with the Academy and civil society. With that in mind, we created a social and physical structure – the Observatório do Médio Xingu, aimed to provide access to information, discuss actions, narratives, and relationships arising in the territory.