territorioistas

Territorioistas is a term that emerged in Latin America, particularly in the context of social movements and academic discourse. It refers to individuals or groups who emphasize the concept of territory as a central element in their struggles for rights, identity, and self-determination. These movements often highlight the relationship between people, land, and culture, viewing territory not just as a physical space but as a repository of history, memory, and social relations.

The focus of territorioistas often lies in defending territories from external threats such as extractive industries, large-scale agricultural projects, or state-led development initiatives that may dispossess or marginalize local populations. They advocate for the recognition of collective rights to land and natural resources, and for the autonomy to manage their territories according to their own traditions and worldviews. This perspective frequently intersects with indigenous rights movements, peasant struggles, and urban community organizing.

The concept of territory in this context is dynamic and contested, encompassing not only rural and ancestral lands but also urban neighborhoods and common resources. Territorioistas often employ strategies of resistance, community organizing, and legal advocacy to assert their territorial claims and challenge dominant power structures. Their work underscores the importance of place-based identity and the deep connection between environmental sustainability and social justice.