Rupture Magazine Review:

Crossing Borders, Building Bridges: Seven Years of Collaborative Experiences

This review is based on the article “Fronteiras Cruzadas: Fontié ki Kwaze, 7 Anos de Experiências Colaborativas” (Crossed Borders: Fontié ki Kwaze, 7 Years of Collaborative Experiences), a retrospective on a remarkable project that has been making waves in academic and activist circles. The article provides an insightful look into the history, mission, and achievements of the International Forum Fontié ki Kwaze – Fronteiras Cruzadas, a transnational initiative established in 2017 at the University of São Paulo (USP).

The core strength of the Fronteiras Cruzadas project lies in its commitment to collaborative epistemologies. It brings together researchers, activists, artists, and immigrant and refugee communities to work on interdisciplinary research, teaching, cultural projects, and human rights campaigns. As sociologist Tiago Rangel Côrtes notes, the forum effectively “implodes the walls of universities” by integrating the knowledge, practices, and perspectives of migrant collectives. This approach has been a defining feature, placing activists and migrant associations at the center of collective research and extension activities.

The article details the forum’s various events, partnerships, and campaigns over its seven-year history. It highlights how the forum has adapted, from its initial events focusing on “The Challenge of Communications in the face of Displaced Populations” to its online format during the COVID-19 pandemic. This adaptation led to the creation of a YouTube channel that broadcast online activities and reached a wide audience. The project has also expanded into university extension projects and cultural initiatives, notably partnering with institutions like SESC-Carmo to create audiovisual projects such as “Video-Cartas: Conexões Migrantes”. The Fronteiras Cruzadas has also played a crucial role in human rights campaigns, mobilizing support for victims of xenophobic violence and advocating for the #RegularizaçãoJá movement.

The user had the pleasure of participating in two of these important events. The forum’s ability to mobilize a diverse and heterogeneous group of people, and to connect with different scales of government and institutional politics, is truly impressive. The article also introduces Karina Quintanilha, a key co-founder of the forum. She is a sociologist and lawyer who has been instrumental in the project since its inception. Her work includes coordinating extension projects and curating the first edition of the Fronteiras Cruzadas event. She has been a tireless advocate for the rights of migrants and refugees, and it’s a privilege to know her and see her dedication to these vital causes.

You can learn more about their work and projects clicking here