Challenges in post-tragedy resettlement: preservation of identity and memory in the case of Bento Rodrigues

Abstract

The tragedies involving the rupture of tailings dams in Brazil, especially in Minas Gerais, highlight the need for resettlement practices that preserve the memory, identity and culture of the affected communities. This study investigates the compulsory resettlement of Bento Rodrigues, destroyed by the rupture of the Fundão dam, in Mariana, Minas Gerais, in 2015 - an event that resulted in the extinction of a community and the release of approximately 60 million cubic meters of tailings in the Rio Doce basin. Given the impossibility of reconstruction in the original place, the "Novo Bento" was established, a planned resettlement with guidelines such as the maintenance of neighborhood relations and urban elements of the old community. However, it is observed that, although physical aspects have been partially reproduced, the new space failed to fully restore symbolic and identity values, negatively impacting the social, economic and cultural life of the residents. The research analyzes the resettlement process from the perspective of those affected, considering reports, images and reflections on belonging and collective identity based on the newspaper called A Sirene. This newspaper is made by the affected community itself. The study seeks to contribute to the debate on post-tragedy reconstruction, highlighting the importance of projects that respect the memory and ways of life of the affected populations. Thus, it is proposed that interdisciplinary approaches be applied to minimize social and cultural impacts on future resettlements and thus establish environmental justice.