Jogos Indígenas da Aldeia Lagoinha (JOIAL) Terra Indígena Taunay/Ipegue

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the social, cultural, and sporting event known as the Indigenous Games of Aldeia Lagoinha (JOIAL), investigating how this event was established and its significance for the community in terms of cultural appreciation, identity strengthening, and community integration among the peoples of the Taunay/Ipegue Indigenous Land. The study adopts as its theoretical framework the perspective of the new Indigenous history, Indigenous protagonism, and attentive listening to Indigenous perceptions. It is both a bibliographical and ethnographic study, through which it is observed that, more than sports competitions, the event promotes socialization among different villages, encourages youth leadership, and contributes to the strengthening of renewed traditions that engage in dialogue with contemporary sports practices. Beyond its cultural impacts, JOIAL also strengthens the local economy, boosting community trade and village life. Despite challenges related to infrastructure and financial resources, participants remain committed to maintaining the event, demonstrating that its continuity also depends on community engagement. The event has been shaping up as an inspiring model, reaffirming the resilience and strength of the Terena people, showing that sport, culture, and identity move together in a collective process of empowerment. Through the accounts of research participants, it is possible to observe how the event has gained cultural significance and has become a tradition being built by the community of Aldeia Lagoinha.

Keywords: Lagoinha Village; Terena Culture; JOIAL; Indigenous Identity; Cultural Appreciation.