Territorialidades em disputa: normativas e narrativas do Passo dos Negros em Pelotas/RS.

Abstract

The aim of this research is to reflect on the different narratives related to life and inhabiting ways in the Passo dos Negros (The Blacks’ Pass), on the banks of the São Gonçalo Canal, Pelotas city - RS. The proposal arose from the diverse perspectives on a space in dispute in the city and the analysis of its transformations thru different times. It encompasses from its origins as an important cattle and enslaved labor trading hub during the period of the charqueadas, to its role during the peak of rice period, the construction and operation of a local rice mill up to current increasing social conflicts intensified by real estate speculation and residents’ displacement. The understanding of the space of the Passo dos Negros from the narratives of its residents allows to highlight their daily experiences while facing conflicts and transformations. Local residents fight for their acquired right to housing and resist remaining in the area, seeking to preserve their cultural heritage. This community claims for the patrimonialization of such space to avoid that highly dense enclosed condominiums erase the material remnants of meaningful identitary processes. The following historical and cultural landscapes being considered are: Ponte dos Dois Arcos (Two Arch Bridge) - 19th century -, Figueiras (Fig Trees) - protected by environmental legislation -, Corredor das Troopas (Troops’ Corridor) - 19th century -, the architectural complex of Pedro Osório Engineer ( 1922) and its respective surroundings, as well as the São Gonçalo Canal banks - also protected by environmental legislation. The updated city's 2008 Master Plan reproduces the contemporary scenario in which the Passo dos Negros suffers with a reduction of its area of environmental interest. In parallel, other struggles have been emerging in order to fight for the preservation of local narratives, either focusing on its architectural heritage and urban layout, or on the cultural manifestations of its residents. On the verge of displacement, residents actively denounce risks and underline the area’s vulnerability due to the aggressive urban expansion based on real estate interests which are disconnected from their claims.