The battles of the trees: a geography to think about the struggles of indigenous peoples in Brazil

Abstract

The text addresses the struggle of forest people against the exploitation and degradation of their territories, highlighting the need for recognition of their cultures, knowledge and rights. It emphasizes the resistance of these peoples to anti-indigenous policies and capitalist appropriation of nature. Global and national environmental justice and climate change initiatives do not yet adequately address indigenous demands and perspectives. The metaphor of trees represents the unity and diversity of forest peoples, whose actions are critical to preserving the forest and feeding the needs of society. The battle of the trees is about fighting against colonial racism and making indigenous people invisible and unimportant. Relations guided by economic interest are subverted, allowing indigenous peoples to amplify their struggle and participate in politics. The territory and the resistance of indigenous peoples are fundamental to break with the monopoly of the State and globalized capitalism's conception of territory. The research addresses the significance of comprehending the contentious politics of indigenous peoples in Brazil, highlighting the analysis of actions and resistance during the Bolsonaro government, utilizing data from DATALUTA Forest. It also highlights the valorization of indigenous intelligence, and reflects on the geographical nature of these subjects in struggle.