In allusion to the day of indigenous peoples, the João Sõzé Culture House was inaugurated on Tuesday (19th). Installed in the city of Tocantínia, in the Village of the Akwē Xerente People Gate, the place is focused on cultural activities and promotion of handicraft production. The project, conceived by the indigenous people themselves, aims to value and promote the culture and dissemination of the experiences of the people.
The team from the Indigenous Arts and Crafts Space Project of the Superior School of the Judges of the State of Tocantins (ESMAT) closely followed the commemorative event. The festivities were marked by the lively presence of the entire community, the male nomination party, presentation of dances, songs, and playful activities with the indigenous children.
The visit is part of the institutional project to create a permanent exhibition space for indigenous handicrafts at Esmat.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Governor of the State of Tocantins, Wanderlei Barbosa, along with representatives of the Judiciary, the National Indian Foundation (FUNAI), and the Nature Institute of the State of Tocantins (NATURATINS). On the occasion, the indigenous leaders presented to the authorities some of the challenges faced by the Akwē people, among them the need to encourage productive activities that value and respect the indigenous culture, ensuring economic sustainability and food security.
The construction of the João Sõzé Culture House, during the pandemic, is a demonstration of the strength and capacity of achievement of the Akwē People who, led by the chief Devanir and by the female leadership Eliete Xerente, articulated efforts and mobilized the community for this achievement.
The name of the house is a tribute to the elderly João Sõzé, who died in 2020, victim of the coronavirus.
