A visibilidade e o protagonismo do trabalho das mulheres rurais da Comunidade Água Branca do Cajari - AP

Abstract

The article analyzes the visibility and protagonism of rural women from the Água Branca do Cajari community, in the state of Amapá, highlighting their economic, social, and political contributions to local development. Based on a bibliographic and mixed-method approach, the research shows that women’s work is essential for family sustainability and the regional economy, though historically overlooked by public policies and official statistics. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as feminist economics (Federici), social capital theory (Bourdieu), and family farming studies (Melo, Cordeiro, Herrera), the study reveals women’s central roles in productive activities like extractivism, agriculture, and handicrafts, which contribute significantly to income generation and community strengthening. However, structural challenges remain, including gender inequality, lack of formal recognition, and limited access to supportive policies. The study concludes that valuing rural women’s work and strengthening solidarity networks are key to sustainable development and the empowerment of Amazonian women.