Anjuli Fahlberg Livres

Conflict activism in Cidade de Deus, a notorious favela in Rio de Janeiro, is explored through the lens of Anjuli Fahlberg's research. Utilizing fieldwork and participatory action research, the book reveals how activists adapt to local challenges, including gendered governance and racial dynamics, to foster non-violent governance in a context marked by gang and police violence. Fahlberg's insights highlight the resilience and strategic navigation of activists working to create safer community spaces amidst ongoing repression.

As my taxi pulled over, I scanned the bustling street for Esther, familiar with her calm gait and appearance. Instead, I noticed a group of drug traffickers at a nearby sale point, reminding me of the dangers ahead. Having just arrived with two large suitcases, I wished I could have stayed in the car longer, especially as my driver seemed eager to leave the area. Exiting the taxi, I grabbed my bags and headed into the neighborhood I knew well from my time living with Esther, her sister Maria Rita, and her sons, André and Leonardo. Despite familiarity, a constant undercurrent of fear lingered, knowing I could be confronted by traffickers or caught in a violent encounter. I took a side street to avoid one boca and felt relief when I spotted André approaching. He greeted me with a bear hug and took hold of my larger suitcase, towering over me despite being just shy of thirteen. He mentioned that Esther was waiting at a different corner, humorously noting her struggle with phone messages. We laughed and continued our search, eventually finding her a few blocks away. As we walked home together, I tried to shake off the anxiety that Cidade de Deus brought, focusing instead on the joy of reuniting with loved ones.