Estrategias de expansión agroindustrial de la caña de azúcar y tácticas de resistencia comunitaria en la comunidad de Tumbatú, parroquia San Vicente de Pusir-Valle del Chota.

Abstract

This research analyses the socio-territorial conflicts in the Chota Valley by studying the historical-sociological reality of the community of Tumbatú. It is based on the hypothesis that life in the community's territory was transformed with the arrival of capitalism in the sub-region. To this end, the problem is approached from a historical perspective that begins with the arrival of the sugar cane plantations in the valley. On the other hand, it is evident that community social psychology contributes to the deepening of the problems between capital and community; therefore, the theory that emerges from the study and fieldwork allows us to understand and initiate processes of social transformation. Participatory Action Research was used as a methodology that relies on qualitative techniques to record information. The direct link through the intergenerational focus group, the collective mapping workshop, participant observation and semi-structured interviews serve as a guide for the psychologist committed to memory and community life. The results of this research are:

-In the community there is no reflection on the impact of capital on their territory, the monoculture of sugarcane is not understood as a process of expansion of capitalism on their land.

-Capital gain through sugar cane production is related to the growth of the city of Ibarra. The business class creates alliances with the sugar cane industry and various commercial sectors that control the region of analysis.

-Artistic and religious practices resist in the Afro-descendant territory over time, families reproduce their culture and fabricate ways of life that escape the plans of the capitalist class.

-Orality, dance, music and events to honour their dead are the main forms of gathering and exchange between communities to resist. These tactics are the way to generate alternatives for social transformation in the territory.