University, Citizenship and Localism in Fortaleza / Brazil

Abstract

Since 1998, a group of 15 students and 3 professors of Sociology of Universidade Estadual do Ceará has been carrying out an investigation, aiming to systematize, gather and generate information about the 114 neighborhoods of Fortaleza. We believe that the neighborhood is the greatest enabler of knowledge of the specificities of the municipality. In these places, particular forms of organization, demands and collective strategies for achievement can be identified. The methodological strategy consists of: documentary survey of each neighborhood; on-the-spot checking of the collected data; systematization, presentation, discussion and complementation of data with the community; preparation of an information booklet for use by residents; carrying out specific studies (memory, health, work, environment, etc.) about the neighborhood, based on discussions with residents; preparation of a report on Fortaleza. O study has facilitated community access to information, helped to strengthen local identities and enabled the exercise of popular participation, through data feeding, feedback and socialization.