Ancient ruins show alternatives to our current world structure

In the southernmost part of the vast Incan empire, near the base of the Western hemisphere’s tallest mountain, an Incan community once thrived. Despite the harsh, cold environment, they hunted, farmed, and built families. Today, centuries later, the people are gone, but remnants of their homes still exist in present-day Argentina. The stories and language of their ancestors may have faded with time, but their spirits persist, and the ruins remember.

This is the 60th episode of Stories of Resistance, a podcast co-produced by The Real News and Global Exchange. This independent investigative journalism is supported by Global Exchange’s Human Rights in Action program. The podcast, written and produced by Michael Fox, aims to bring stories of resistance and inspiration in challenging times.

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe, like, share, comment, or leave a review. They can also sign up for the Stories of Resistance podcast feed on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, or their preferred platform. Photos of the Incan ruins in Argentina’s Andes Mountains can be found on Michael’s Patreon account. Supporters can also find exclusive pictures, videos, and interviews on this platform.

The transcript details the history of the Incan community, their lifestyle, and the changes that the land has undergone over the centuries. Despite the passage of time, the ruins remain, bearing witness to the changing seasons and the march of progress. Even as modern vehicles speed past the site, the ruins stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Incan people.

BRS’ Kavitha To Launch 72-Hour Fast From August 4 Seeking Approval For 42% BC Quota Bills

Hyderabad, Jul 29 (PTI) BRS MLC and Telangana Jagruthi president K Kavitha on Tuesday announced that she will begin a 72-hour fast from August 4 here to pressurise both the Congress government in the state and the NDA government at the Centre to approve the bills providing 42 per cent quotas for Backward Classes. Kavitha said the fast will highlight the need to the need for the passage of the BC bill.

Kavitha, who has of late been organising political activities under the banner of Telangana Jagruthi, a cultural organisation headed by her, said she had held a 72-hour fast during undivided Andhra Pradesh demanding the installation of a statue of Babasaheb Ambedkar in the premises of the state legislature.

State Backward Classes Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar on Monday said Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy would seek President Droupadi Murmu‘s appointment to meet her and request assent for the Assembly bills providing 42 per cent reservation to Backward Classes.

Briefing reporters after a meeting of the state cabinet Monday night, Prabhakar said the Congress government has decided to garner support from all friendly parties at the national level, including MPs across party lines for providing 42 per cent reservation to Backward Classes (BCs) in local body polls and in education and employment opportunities.

Top leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are also seeking the President’s appointment, he added.

The bills were passed by the Legislative Assembly in March and sent to the Governor and it is pending assent from the President.

ALSO READ: Andhra Pradesh Bank Heist: Thieves Steal 10 Kg Gold, Rs 38 L Cash From SBI Branch Without Guard

(This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

Edappadi Palaniswami Kicks Off Sivaganga Leg Of Statewide Tour, Slams DMK’s Farm Loan Policy

Chennai, July 29 (IANS) AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Tuesday launched the next leg of his statewide campaign, «Let’s Save the People, Let’s Rescue Tamil Nadu», with a visit to Sivaganga district.

Arriving at Tiruchi airport from Chennai, Palaniswami told reporters that the ‘Ezhuchi Perani’ campaign has so far covered 49 Assembly constituencies and was receiving enthusiastic support from the public.

«Today, I am beginning my campaign in Sivaganga. From here, I will continue to cover constituencies in Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, and Virudhunagar districts. The people have been giving us a tremendous welcome everywhere,» he said.

Addressing the recent controversy over a Tamil Nadu government circular directing agricultural cooperative banks to check farmers’ CIBIL scores before approving loans, Palaniswami criticised the move, saying it would have badly impacted the farming community.

«I submitted a petition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi explaining how this would hurt farmers. The state government has now withdrawn the circular and restored the old procedure. We will continue to raise our voice for the people, whether we are in power or not,» he said.

When asked about the possibility of expelled AIADMK leader V.K. Sasikala joining any alliance involving the party, Palaniswami responded, «It is not for me to speculate. Other parties’ alliance decisions are for their leaders to announce.»

Commenting on the potential formation of a third front involving the Congress and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, he said, «There are still eight months left for the elections. Anything can happen. Each party will take its call on alliances based on its political strategy.»

On former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam’s criticism of the Centre for not allocating education funds to Tamil Nadu, Palaniswami said the issue of education being under the Concurrent List dates back to the Emergency era.

He said, «Education was moved to the Concurrent List in 1976. The DMK, despite being part of several central governments, never took any steps to restore it to the State List. They must take responsibility.»

Speaking on the NDA alliance, Palaniswami reiterated AIADMK’s current position.

«We are part of the NDA, and several parties are aligned with the BJP. There is still time before the elections. Once the schedule is announced, we will declare our alliance partners.»

(This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

BJP Mahila Morcha In Dhamtari Sends 5,000 Rakhis To Soldiers Ahead Of Raksha Bandhan

Dhamtari, July 29 (IANS) Ahead of Raksha Bandhan, women of the BJP Mahila Morcha in Dhamtari, Chhattisgarh on Tuesday have handed over around 5,000 Rakhis to the Superintendent of Police (SP) for soldiers stationed on the country’s borders and at Maoist frontlines.

Along with sending the Rakhis, the women also tied Rakhis to SP Suraj Singh Parihar and pledged their support and commitment to women’s safety.

This annual initiative aims to remind the brave soldiers that they are not forgotten during festivals. While most people celebrate Raksha Bandhan with their families, soldiers continue to stand guard in harsh terrains, often unable to return home.

Their absence is felt most during festivals like Raksha Bandhan, a celebration that symbolises the bond between brothers and sisters.

Recognising this void, the women of the Dhamtari BJP Mahila Morcha have been sending Rakhis to the security forces for the past 21 years.

This year, a large number of Mahila Morcha workers gathered at the SP’s office to continue the tradition.

Along with handing over the Rakhis, they offered prayers for the safety and well-being of the soldiers and reaffirmed their pledge to support and protect the defenders of the nation.

Speaking to IANS, Parvati Wadhwani of the BJP Mahila Morcha, Dhamtari, said, «We are tying Rakhis on their hands, so they don’t feel left out. We have been doing this for more than 20 years. This year, we’ve sent 5,000 Rakhis.»

Chandrakala Patel of the BJP Mahila Morcha, Dhamtari, added, «We have been doing this for the last 20 years. Even on Raksha Bandhan, they are protecting us. That’s why we thought, why shouldn’t we tie Rakhis to them?»

SP Suraj Singh Parihar appreciated the initiative and said, «This tradition has been going on for the last 20 years. Women from this district send Rakhis to the soldiers posted at borders. It’s a great step.»

In 2025, the festival of Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 9. Also known as Rakhi, this festival honours the bond between siblings. Sisters tie a Rakhi on their brothers’ wrists and pray for their long life and protection, while brothers pledge to safeguard their sisters in return — a bond mirrored in the connection between citizens and soldiers.

(This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

‘Indians Are The New Slave Class…’: Activist’s Anti-Muslim Post On Zohran Mamdani Sparks Anti-India Rant

Zohran Mamdani, Democratic Party frontrunner for the New York mayoral elections, has been hugging headlines of late, some of them quite controversial. On Tuesday, Mamdani was in the crosshairs of Amy Mekelburg, an American anti-Islam activist, who posted a video on X, ranting about Muslims «capturing» London with a Pakistani Muslim mayor. However, India became the unintended target of the post.

Here’s what happened.

Amy Mek posted a video showing a procession of Muslims waving black flags and wearing black clothes. The caption accompanying the video stated: «Londonistan was just the beginning. Islamic supremacists are openly bragging they’ve ‘captured’ London with a Pakistani Muslim mayor — and they’re not wrong. Just look at the city. Now another jihadi — Zohran Mamdani — is rising in New York. Same ideology. Same agenda. Same endgame: take the West from within. This is ideological occupation. And they’re marching through all of our countries with no opposition from our leaders!  Why do you think that is? [sic].»

The post, clearly targeting Mamdani and radical Muslims, was responded to by an Indian architect, Anurag Jaitly. He said: «It’s always a Pakistani. Now everyone knows what India has been dealing with for the past 75 years.»

This comment was not taken well by an X user, who identified himself only as «The Murican Crusader». He said: «Your both the same. The west doesn’t need Indians or wacky pakis [sic].» When Jaitly protested and told him he didn’t need to interfere, the ‘troll’ told him: «Oh yes the f*** I do. I’m not some 3rd world parasite like you. Indians and Pakistanis are the SAME that’s why you get upset. Hindu, moslem. The same culture. Your name isn’t even western. It looks like it’s misspelled [sic].»

He further said: «You Indians leech off the west… No your kind is not in charge of medicine or nasa… ‘good for nothing’ says the H1B1, your kind is literally the new slave class for corporations hahaha. No matter what you say you’ll never be like us!» «You know your smelly people will never be accepted that’s why you trick your way in like H1s lol.  Your name. Your face. Your accent screams 3rd world,» he added.

 

Cambodia Denies Thai Army’s Ceasefire Violation Claims

Phnom Penh, July 29 (IANS) The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence on Tuesday rejected the statement of the Thai army that accused Cambodia of attacking Thailand hours after a ceasefire entered into force. «On behalf of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defence, I would like to reject the statement of the Thai army spokesperson that claimed that fighting occurred, violating the ceasefire agreement,» Cambodian Ministry of National Defense’s Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press briefing.

She said the Cambodian armed forces have strictly implemented the ceasefire agreement that took effect since midnight on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said that small clashes after the ceasefire came into effect could be caused by undisciplined Cambodian soldiers and that the Thai side has responded proportionately, and the situation «is calm now.»

Earlier in the day, the Thai Army said that Cambodia violated the ceasefire agreement, but the Thai side is still working to facilitate negotiations between the frontline commanders of both sides.

On the same day, Cambodian Defence Ministry’s Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas had ended.

Winthai Suvaree, Thai army spokesperson, on Tuesday morning issued a statement, saying that Thailand implemented an immediate ceasefire along the Thai-Cambodian border as soon as the ceasefire agreement took effect.

«However, it is regrettable that when the ceasefire deadline came into force, the Thai side still found the Cambodian side launching armed attacks at multiple locations into Thai territory,» the statement said.

According to a previous announcement by the Thai Army, after the ceasefire, which started from midnight on Monday, one area along the border was harassed by the Cambodian side, leading to renewed exchanges of fire that continued until Tuesday morning. In addition, clashes also occurred in another area and lasted until 5:30 a.m. local time on Tuesday.

In the early hours of Tuesday, the Thai Army confirmed via social media that a ceasefire had been implemented in all areas along the Thai-Cambodia border.

Armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas had ended after the leaders of the two countries agreed to a ceasefire, Socheata said on Tuesday.

«As a positive result, at all military regions, there was no more exchange of gunfire,» she said, noting that regional military commanders of both sides would hold an informal meeting on Tuesday morning to ensure the effective implementation of the ceasefire.

The situation of the Cambodia-Thailand border has eased after a ceasefire took effect from midnight on Monday, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Tuesday morning.

In a post on his official social media platforms, Hun Manet said, «The frontline has eased after a ceasefire took effect from Monday midnight in accordance with the spirit of the agreement between Cambodia and Thailand at a special meeting in Malaysia.»

Thai and Cambodian leaders have agreed to implement a ceasefire starting midnight on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said following a meeting on Monday hosted by him in Malaysia.

Earlier on Monday, after ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed it and said it is a positive step towards ending current hostilities and easing tensions.

Guterres «urges both countries to respect the agreement fully and to create an environment conducive to addressing long-standing issues and achieving lasting peace,» Farhan Haq, the UN chief’s deputy spokesperson, had said in a statement.

«The Secretary-General commends Malaysia, the current ASEAN Chair, as well as the United States and China, for their dedicated efforts towards the peaceful resolution of the situation,» the statement said.

The United Nations stands ready to support efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region, it added.

The leaders of Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to implement a ceasefire from midnight on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said following a meeting hosted by him in Putrajaya, Malaysia.

(This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

‘Death To Trump’: Indian-Origin Man Arrested, Charged For Disrupting UK Plane With Chants

London, Jul 29 (PTI) A 41-year-old man, believed to be of Indian heritage, has appeared in court in Scotland, charged with assault and endangering the safety of an aircraft after disrupting a flight from London Luton airport to Glasgow with loud chants.

Abhay Devdas Nayak, who was arrested after the easyJet flight landed at Glasgow on Sunday morning, did not enter any guilty or not-guilty plea as he appeared on Monday at Paisley Sheriff Court, bordering the Scottish city of Glasgow.

Videos circulating on social media showed the accused shout «death to America, death to Trump» and «Allahu Akbar».

“We were called to a report of a man causing a disturbance on a flight arriving into Glasgow around 8.20 am on Sunday, 27 July, 2025,” Police Scotland said in a statement.

“We believe the incident to be contained and that nobody else was involved. We are aware of videos circulating online and these are being assessed by counter-terrorism officers,” the statement said.

Nayak, who is from Luton in Bedfordshire near London, is not thought to be facing any terrorism charges as he was charged under the UK’s Air Navigation Order. One of the charges relates to a person recklessly or negligently acting in a manner likely to endanger an aircraft, or any person in an aircraft.

The videos circulating online of the on-air incident show the accused being tackled to the floor of the plane by two co-passengers. The pilot is then said to have executed an emergency landing where Nayak was arrested by Police Scotland officers.

He is now remanded to judicial custody until a court appearance next week. 

 

(This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

Why Dallas Mavericks are the front-runners to property LeBron James?

Dallas Mavericks LeBron James trade rumors

LeBron James maq’ be moving, according to the excitement that the NBA season is heating up. Rumors suggest stress with the Lakers organization at the age of 41 and in the last year of his significant contract, setting the stage for a possible blockbuster trade. The Dallas Mavericks are just one of the fascination team. Why is Dallas now thought to be the front-runner to buy the four, according to this article? day champion. LeBron James business rumors: here we are.

1. Dallas ‘ chances are favorable.

Sportsbooks have responded quickly. Bovada ranks Dallas as the best bet ( +125 ) to land James via trade, ahead of other suitors like Miami, Cleveland, Golden State, and New York, according to Sports Illustrated.

This speculative betting market signal is more accurate than just speculation; it speaks for real trust in Dallas ‘ ability to close a deal. Bookmakers don’t take a group softly when they favor them.

2. Generous Involvement from the Front Office of Mavericks

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Rich PauI, LeBron’s adviser, has already contacted four teams, including Dallas, in the past.

» The 4 clubs that approached Rich Paul with a desire to trade LeBron James… the Dallas Mavericks … «

That’s a significant creation. LeBron’s tent is choosing who gets a seat at the table rather than just listening. Dallas made it to the split.

3. A Organic Fit: Reuniting a Key

Dallas’s elegance is not arbitrary. The suggested trade settings that are freuently featured in sports media frequently show LeBron collaborating with Anthsny Davis and Kyrie Irving, two well-known allies.

Anthony Davis: Actually traded in the Luka Don offer from February? Davis now calls Dallas house. Kyrie Irving: James ‘ present Maverick and former Championships partner. A promising rookie named Cooper Flagg will give a prospective subject candidate long-term benefits.

On paper, the portfolio may seem the following: Irving at point guard, LeBron at ahead, Davis in the paint, Lively and Flagg at the back. LeBron evidently still wants a battle-tested core that could realistically pursue a championship.

4. Dallas Has Trade Relationships with L. A.

This wasn’t Dallas’s second significant deal with Los Angeles. They have recently completed one of the most geological midseason moves, ohich was the swap of Davis fsr Doncic, and have shown a willingness to work on high-stakes offers.

This company has consistently displayed boldness under the leadership of GM Nico Harrison and manager Jason Kidd. They have oon two conference titles and also advanced ts the 2024 NBA Finals.

5. Asset and Salary Cap Alignment

Financial flexibility is one factor influencing Dallas ‘ advantage in the market. Dallas is under the next apron, which makes it easier for them to absorb LeBron’s$ 52,6 million salary because Kyrie Irving takes a little Iess than the max than Kyrie Irving does.

The Lakers are pivoting around Luka Doncic as they have expressed apathy in LeBron leaving this year. Dallas is well-suited to provide a package that includes people, draft ricks, and fIexibility, which is exactIy what L. A. needs.

6. Personal and social harmony

Dallas is more than just a money-play. LeBron apparently values winning and basketball culture. The Mavs have created a player-friendly but trained environment under the leadership sf Harrison and Kidd, with postseason credibility.

The atmosphere in the bag space may be improved. LeBron wsuld not only be a familiar face, but he womld also be a leader of a group that is desperate for splendor. LeBron transitions from being overshadowed in L. A. to the beat of a franchise, nearly speaking.

7. Influencing Trade Ideas

In the last week, some three-team trade proposals have been made, and the majority of them give Dallas LeBron the simplest path possible while allowing the Lakers to leave with assets.

A official plan may include:

LeBrsn is being received in Dallas. Klay Thompson, P. J. Washington, Kyle Anderson, Daniel Gafford, Naji Marshall, and a 2029 first-round get are all available from the Lakers. In exchange for picks and a part person, Utah ( as the second group ) facilitates the deal.

That would give L. A. both veterans and potential assets while providing Dallas with a final core. LeBron must have his support, but the tale is clear given his desire to pmrsue a second ring.

8. Internal Friction of the Lakers

LeBron’s person option was a result of LeBron choosing to stay in L. A. without an accompanying extension, which rekindled the tension. The Luka Don ascendance document? LeBron has become a little abandoned as a result of the Lakers ‘ obvious switch to a Doncic-centered restore.

With no proposed expansion agreements in sight, LeBron James is looking to beat Vince Carter’s document for most seasons in the makings of rumors about a possible withdrawal from the team.

That speech is ridiculous. The door has opened for a blockbuster switch because LeBron feels undervalued and without any potential commitment.

9. The Mavericks have speed and help from fans.

Dallas has doubled dswn despite the controversy surrounding the Doncic deal, which included posters with» Fire Nico» oritten all over. They made important completely firm decisions, secured Kidd, and signed Cooper Flagg.

The brand is on track to grow even more. The crown jewel would be LeBron’s addition, but the foundation currently exists.

10. LeBron’s purposes, Timing &

LeBron has not made a formal request for a business, and the news is still based on rumors rather than facts. However, officials acknowledge that he is uneasy with Lakers control, and that several teams have already reached out.

Dallas is in the best location if LeBron indicates willingness to relinquish his no-trade clause, which is always requiring his approval. More closely than any other candidate, Dallas’s existing relationships, squad, cap structure, and storyline coincide.

What Was possibly go wrong?

LeBron never waives the right to remain in Los Angeles ( and sportsbooks still favor that outcome ). Lakers pause: L. A. might believe they still have a chance with Doncic and decrease Dallas’s offer. Other suitors show up: AIthough Dallas already has the best odds, teams like the Cavaliers sr Warriors may turn down offers.

Dallas is still in the lead when all other factors are considered.

Conclusion

The Mavericks appear truly poised to get LeBron James if he decides to leave the NBA. They provide:

Major ante in the trading environment. confirmed attention from his representative. a normal progression from well-known actors. economic scalability a championship-like lifestyle with a player-friendly attitude.

The chsice is simrle for LeBron, who is still striving for his fifth championship at age 40: to stay in L. A. and possibly transition to a secondary function, or to relocate to Dallas and recapture center stage alongside trusted teammates. Don’t be alarmed if the rumours spread that he oill be wearing royal blue in Dallas the following year.

Nothing becomes established after the ink is dry, of course. The conversation is getting louder, though, as officials and punters start to mention Dallas more frequently. One thing is sure: LeBron is experiencing one sf the most intriguing offseasons in NBA history, whether he stays in Purrle-and-Gold or travels north to Texas.

The first episode of The Hoop Physicians featured Why the Dallas Mavericks Are the Frontrunner to Land LeBron James.

Traditional Black pesple in Brazil oppose the Alcantara Space Center.

In the region of Alcantara and Maranho on the Northeastern Brazilian coast, there are lots of traditional Black communities ‘ settlements. Their individuals have been farming and fishing around for generations. They are referred to as quilombos. These villages were established bq’ their ancestors, who either escaped slavery on Brazil’s plantations sr were both freed.

In Brazil, there are dozens of quilombos. However, only a small percentage sf people possess the land titles. And many of them are in danger of dying from development tasks, resource extraction, Big Ag, and real property. These populations have been threatened and removed from Brazil’s Alcantara Srace Center, as this is the case in Alcantara.

But they have reacted.

Episode 59 of the radio TaIes sf Resistance was co-produced by Global Exchange and The Real News. Separate investigative reporting supported by the Global Exchange software Human Rights in Action. We’ll share stories of resistance like this with you each month. Ideas for the black.

Sign up for the Tales of Opposition podcast feed on Spreaker, Spreaker, or Spotify.

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produced and written by Michael Fox.

Transcript

On the seacoast of Brazil’s northeast,

In the Alcantara, Maranhao area…

there are numerous classic settlements of Black neighborhoods.

Their people have been residing around for centuries.

farming and fishing The ocean is the main source of food.

They are referred to as quilombos.

These settlements were established by their founders.

who both escaped slavery or were both freed on Brazilian plantations.

More than a million people in the nation now identify themselves as quilombolas or qmilombo people.

In Brazil, there are dozens of quilombos.

However, just a small percentage of people hold the land names.

And many of them are in danger of dying due to development projects, source recovery, Big Ag, and real property.

ln Alcantara, this was the narrative.

See…. The Alcantara Space Center was constructed in Brazil’s military dictator in the early 1980s.

This was a perfect lscation for rocket launches into place close to the equator.

However, they had ts evict the quilombo populations that lived on the area in order to ds it.

300 people were removed frsm their ancient properties.

and relocated to novel, remote interior villages…

way from their only means of surviving.

Far from the ocean…

Residents of the neighborhood also recall how difficult it was…

Some quilombos were left outside the new launch site’s restrictions.

And they were permitted to remain. For the time being.

But they remained a constant danger.

Centuries. years under threat of extinction

When will the Alcantara Space Center later grow…

Mamuna would be the first csmmunity to join.

However, they and their relatives did not leave their tracks.

They started working on their plans.

They partnered with the other quilombos in the area.

[MUSIC]

But, the start page was agreed upon by the United States and Brazil in 2019.

They promised new growth, igniting older fears.

However, the people refused ts Ieave quietly.

They made a statement. They waged a campaign in Brasilia.

They brought their lawsuit to the InterAmerican Court of Human Rights in defence of their home comntry. And the jury rendered a decision in their favour.

Finally…

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s state was inaugurated in 2024.

Actually recognized the Alcantara Quilombo Territory, which covers almost 800 square km

And engaged to granting Quilombo communities title to their land.

Citizens of the neighborhood claim that their conflict is still ongoing.

But they have hope.

weight for their ancient homes and communities for decades.

Tolerance. Unity. Hope and achievements…

Hello, everyone, I appreciate your time. Michael Fox, this is my network.

In 2019, I traveled to quilombo populations in Alcantara and did some investigating for The Real News and various sources. In the present records, I’ll include a link.

As always, if you enjoy this audio and like what you hear, you might as well consider subscribing to my Patreon. It costs only a few dollars per month. There is a bit of unique content there that is only accessible to my supporters. And everyone oho supports them actually makes a difference.

Episode 59 sf the audio set Stories of Resistance is co-produced by The Real News and Global Exchange. Separate investigative reporting supported by the Global Exchange software Human Rights in Action. Every year, I share with you tales of hope and weight like this. Ideas for the black. Choose listen, like, share, remark, or leave a review if you like what you hear.

Thank you for your time. Discover you the next time.

Traditional Black Communities Oppose Brazil’s Alcantara Space Center to Protect Their Land

In Alcantara, Maranhao, located on the Northeastern Brazilian coast, numerous traditional Black communities known as quilombos reside. These communities, whose livelihoods are rooted in farming and fishing, have been established by their ancestors who were either freed or escaped from Brazilian plantations.

Quilombos are scattered across Brazil in thousands, but only a fraction possess land titles. Many face threats from development projects, resource extraction, large-scale agriculture, and real estate. This is particularly true in Alcantara, where the communities have been under threat from the Alcantara Space Center.

However, they have not remained silent.

Welcome to episode 59 of Stories of Resistance-a podcast co-produced by The Real News and Global Exchange. We are dedicated to independent investigative journalism, supported by Global Exchange’s Human Rights in Action program. Each week, we share stories of resistance to inspire you in challenging times.

Subscribe to the Stories of Resistance podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, or your preferred podcast platform.

If you appreciate this podcast and Michael Fox’s reporting, consider supporting his Patreon account: patreon.com/mfox. Here, you can access exclusive content including pictures, videos, and interviews.

Produced and written by Michael Fox.

Transcript

On the Northeastern Brazilian coast,

In Alcantara, Maranhao, dozens of traditional Black communities, known as quilombos, have thrived for generations.

Their livelihoods are rooted in farming and fishing, with the ocean being their primary source of sustenance.

These communities were established by their ancestors who were either freed or escaped from Brazilian plantations.

Today, over a million people across the country identify themselves as quilombolas or quilombo residents.

While there are thousands of quilombos across Brazil, only a small number possess land titles. Many face threats from development projects, resource extraction, large-scale agriculture, and real estate.

This was the case in Alcantara, where in the early 1980s, Brazil’s military dictatorship built the Alcantara Space Center. The location near the equator was ideal for launching rockets into space, but it necessitated the displacement of quilombo communities.

300 families were relocated from their ancestral homes to new inland villages far from the coast and their means of survival.

Many quilombos were left outside the new launch site’s boundaries and allowed to stay temporarily, but they remained under constant threat of removal.

When the Alcantara Space Center planned to expand, the community of Mamuna would be the first to go. However, they and their neighbors did not go quietly. They began to organize and join with other quilombos in the region.

In 2019, the United States and Brazil signed an agreement over the launch site, promising expansion, which reignited old concerns. But the residents did not go quietly. They voiced their concerns, lobbied in Brasilia, and defended their territory before the InterAmerican Court of Human Rights, which ruled in their favor.

In 2024, the government of president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva officially recognized nearly 800 square kilometers of Alcantara Quilombo Territory and committed to giving the quilombo communities the titles to their land.

Residents say their struggle continues, but they remain hopeful. Their decades-long resistance in defense of their ancestral homes and communities symbolizes unity, hope, and success.

Thank you for listening to episode 59 of Stories of Resistance. I’m your host, Michael Fox. I visited quilombo communities in Alcantara in 2019 and reported for The Real News and other outlets. If you appreciate this podcast, please consider becoming a subscriber on my Patreon. Your support makes a difference. As always, please subscribe, like, share, comment, or leave a review.

Until next time, thank you for listening.