In the Alcantara region of Maranhao, on the Northeastern Brazilian coast, traditional villages of Black communities, known as quilombos, have existed for generations. These communities, whose ancestors were either freed or escaped from enslavement on Brazilian plantations, engage in farming and fishing for their livelihood.
Despite the existence of thousands of quilombos across Brazil, only a small fraction possess land titles. Many are under threat from development projects, resource extraction, large-scale agriculture, and real estate. This was the case in Alcantara, where the communities faced eviction and threats from Brazil’s Alcantara Space Center.
However, these communities have resisted. This is the focus of episode 59 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. Each week, the podcast features stories of resistance like this, providing inspiration in challenging times.
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The podcast episode narrates the story of the quilombos in Alcantara, their struggle against the Alcantara Space Center, and their eventual victory in securing their land rights. Despite the hardships they faced, the quilombos remained united and hopeful, successfully defending their ancestral homes and communities.
The host, Michael Fox, encourages listeners to support his work through Patreon and to engage with the podcast by subscribing, liking, sharing, commenting, or leaving a review. He concludes by expressing his gratitude to the listeners and promising more inspiring stories of resistance in the future.