Comunidad negra de Itacoã: territorio, biodiversidad y organización social, pilares para el etnodesarrollo?

Abstract

This research analyses and argues the possibilities and limitations of ethno-development in the black community of Itacoã from the study of its sustainability pillars: land, biodiversity and social organization. It should be taken into account that this village, located in the region of “Baixo Acará”, is undergoing a process of transformation of its productive activities due to a big demand of economic incomes from its families. Therefore, the use and management of the natural resources, the geographical closeness to the city of Belem do Para, and the internal management ability have all contributed as positive factors to improve the living conditions of the local population. However, the high rate of population compared to the geographical extension, the underground level of most social services and the seasonal difficulties to get some wages have all become obstacles to carry out rural development practices. It is also worth mentioning the preservation of the diversity of medicine and fruit plants in the area of research, as a result of the traditional agro forest management and the contradictions derived from the relations among the different families in the village and among them and the institutions involved, both state and private ones.