The Globoplay documentary, “Vale dos Isolados: o assassinato de Bruno e Dom,” has been awarded the Vladmir Herzog Prize for Best Journalistic Video Production on Tuesday (10). Directed by Sônia Bridi, the film delves into the case of indigenist Bruno Pereira and British journalist Dom, shedding light on how state negligence has reignited a historical cycle of violence in the Vale do Javari region, home to the largest number of isolated indigenous communities in the world.
The documentary unveils a disturbing reality where the lives and well-being of indigenous peoples are endangered due to the failures of the State. Through a meticulous investigation, “Vale dos Isolados” exposes the dire consequences of this negligence, which have tragically resulted in the deaths of Bruno Pereira and Dom.
The Vale do Javari, located in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, boasts unparalleled biodiversity and is home to numerous indigenous tribes, some of whom have chosen to live in isolation from the modern world. These communities have long relied upon the forest’s resources, adhering to their ancestral traditions and preserving their unique way of life. However, the encroachment of illegal activities, such as logging, mining, and land invasion, has posed severe threats to their existence.
The documentary sheds light on the struggle faced by these isolated indigenous communities, exacerbated by the absence of adequate protection from the authorities. It uncovers a vicious cycle of violence stemming from the neglect and indifference demonstrated by the State towards the plight of these vulnerable populations. The consequences are devastating, as conflicts with outsiders often culminate in bloodshed and loss of life.
Bruno Pereira, an indigenist who dedicated his life to defending the rights of indigenous peoples, and Dom, a journalist pursuing the truth in remote regions, paid the ultimate price for their commitment. Both lost their lives in separate incidents related to the escalating violence in the Vale do Javari. Their deaths serve as tragic examples of the dangers faced by those who stand up against injustice and defend the rights of marginalized communities.
The documentary intertwines personal narratives with expert interviews, painting a comprehensive picture of the complex issues at play. It exposes the systemic failures that have allowed the cycle of violence to persist, ranging from inadequate law enforcement and insufficient government support to rampant corruption and illegal activities.
“Vale dos Isolados: o assassinato de Bruno e Dom” transcends mere reportage; it serves as a poignant call for justice and accountability. By amplifying the voices of the affected indigenous communities and shedding light on the circumstances surrounding these senseless killings, the documentary demands action from the authorities and society as a whole.
In a time when environmental preservation and social justice have become pressing global concerns, “Vale dos Isolados” stands as a powerful testament to the urgent need for change. It challenges us to confront the consequences of our collective negligence and compels us to reevaluate our responsibilities towards protecting the rights and lives of the most vulnerable members of our society. Only through awareness, empathy, and decisive action can we hope to break this destructive cycle and forge a path towards a more just and inclusive future.
