The Archdiocese of Mariana, Liberation Theology, and Emergence of the Movement of People Affected by Dams in the Alto Rio Doce region (MG)

Abstract

The article analyzes the mobilization and networking of progressive religious groups in the Archdiocese of Mariana in Minas Gerais State and the influence of this process on the emergence and consolidation of the Movement of People Affected by Dams in the Alto Rio Doce and Zona da Mata regions of the state. We use the political process approach to explain ideological and institutional transformations within the Archdiocese and their influence on the organization of local populations. Documents and interview data demonstrate that a favorable political opportunity structure provided conditions which facilitated the diffusion of ideas and religious practices related to Liberation Theology. The interaction of religious activists contributed to the formation of social movement networks and mobilization structures which facilitated dissemination. Framing processes played an important role in facilitating the assimilation of these ideas by activists and applying them within a vision of building a more just society. Keywords: Archdiocese of Mariana; mobilization; people affected by dams; Liberation Theology; social movements.