The disputes for the preservation of the Maceió stream: tourism, heritage, environment, and memory amidst the urban and social contradictions of Mucuripe (1988-1994)

Abstract

Throughout the late 20th century, Ceará received diverse investments that led to the creation of slogans like the 'City of the Sun,' aiming to make the states’ capital the gateway and postcard for political, economic, and imagery ventures formed amid real estate speculation, gentrification, and massive advertising. Within this entire process, Maceió Stream stands as a repertoire of issues and disputes regarding its existence and destinies, which the article aims to contemplate. The concept of Urban Environmental Heritage is here employed to develop analyses focused on the urban, social, memorial, and environmental aspects of Mucuripe's waterfront. Through periodic sources from both major and minor press outlets, as well as productions from associations and movements advocating for the environment and neighborhood causes, arguments are presented regarding the ramifications of this process spurred by the increase in social and spatial inequalities. A historical perspective analysis on the different contested urban projects unveils actions that have buried stories and memories concerning the Mucuripe neighborhood and its relationship with tourism. Furthermore, the article highlights the possibility of formulating alternative discussions involving the potential future-pasts of Maceió Stream.