Entrevista com Márcia Kambeba

What does she say about the city?

She reflects on how, although she lives in the city, this urban space is still deeply connected to her Indigenous identity. She emphasizes that the city does not erase or diminish their ancestral traditions; instead, it becomes another extension of their village (“aldeia”).

Which people does she belong to?

Research: identify in what state her people live, what is the closest river and closest country other than Brazil.

Marcia formally introduces herself as a member of her people and situates her identity within the larger context of Indigenous nations of the Upper Solimões region.

Identify two verbs in past tense.

She describes her place of birth, the village of Belém dos Solimões, and begins recalling how life was during her childhood.

Why use imperfect 'havia'?

Marcia explains what the houses in her community looked like when she was young, giving details about traditional construction techniques and materials. Wooden structures, palm thatch roofs, and simple designs were common, reflecting a lifestyle closely connected to the environment.

Identify a verb in the imperfect.

She recounts the exploitation suffered by the Ticuna people at the hands of regatões (traveling merchants), focusing on one man, Jordão, who forced Indigenous families into cycles of debt and dependence. This forms part of a broader historical narrative of economic coercion and quasi-enslavement during the rubber boom.

What new structures appeared?

Marcia describes how external institutions such as FUNAI and missionary groups later arrived in the village, bringing new buildings like health posts and administrative structures. These additions marked a phase of infrastructural change and stronger governmental presence.

Which linguistic trunk does Kambeba belong to?

She contrasts the Ticuna language with the Cambeba language, emphasizing how Indigenous peoples in the region are culturally diverse.

What changed about the roads?

Marcia observes how returning to the village over the years revealed noticeable changes in the landscape and infrastructure.

Why is the river important?

She explains the vital role of the river in Kambeba culture.

What role do elders play?

Marcia describes the profound respect that Indigenous communities hold for elders, who are seen as carriers of ancestral wisdom.

What does the school teach?

She explains how efforts are being made to preserve Kambeba culture even in urban contexts, such as through schools that involves elders and community leaders.

Identify two possessive pronouns.

She speaks about how living in the city brought significant changes to her life and routines, even as she continues to carry her Indigenous identity proudly. The urban environment altered her daily rhythm and surroundings, yet it never took away her essence or cultural belonging. She reaffirms that one can adapt to modern life without losing ancestral identity, values, or connection to one’s people.