Real That is Not Worth A Pin: A Critical Reflection on The Social Invisibility of Clay Extraction Professionals in Two Villages In Cantá-RR

Abstract

Objective: This article seeks to promote a critical reflection on the social invisibility of workers who extract clay for brick production in the villages of Real and Vintém, in the municipality of Cantá-RR. Theoretical Framework: Social invisibility is a concept used to describe people who are socially invisible due to prejudice, indifference, and stigmatization established by hegemonic groups. This phenomenon is evident in interpersonal and socioeconomic relationships of the contemporary era, despite globalization and the social advances achieved. Method: To this end, field research and interviews were conducted with formal and informal workers actively engaged in production in the two mentioned villages, as well as documentary research. The theoretical production was based on the concept of labor as a commodity in the capitalist system, revealing the process of devaluation of this category of brickmakers. Results and Discussion: The main results of the research indicate that some actions and inactions of the State, known as public policies, have reinforced the naturalization of the expulsion of these low-income people from their social spaces, contributing to a possible process of social cleansing. Research Implications: The research questions current public policies, which, if applied in concrete reality, could improve the living and working conditions of brickmakers, promoting social inclusion and preventing their marginalization. Originality/Value: This study offers an unprecedented analysis of the social invisibility of pottery workers who make bricks in Cantá-RR, providing a discussion on public policies aimed at improving their socioeconomic conditions and promoting social equity in contradiction to the ongoing social cleansing.