Life in the quilombo: work, affection and care in the words and images of quilombola women

Abstract

Quilombola communities in Brazil have an essential relationship with territory, as it is through their relationship with the land that Quilombolas affirm their ethnic-racial identity. This study reflects upon how women from the Pinguela quilombo in inland Bahia, Brazil, construct their identity. The project was developed using photovoice and narratives were created within a framework of authentic dialogue and sisterhood. The findings reveal the main problems faced by the women in their daily lives, including territorial disputes and valorization of land, as well as caring for the community and social relationships based on solidarity. The study evidenced the historic and constant silencing of the hardships faced by this population and the urgent need for the implementation of public policies that recognize and respect the values and rights of the Quilombola population in Brazil.