Indigenous population in the state of São Paulo

interpretations of the 2022 Census

Abstract

The 2022 Census recorded 55,331 indigenous people in the state of São Paulo, with 92.4% residing in non-indigenous lands, predominantly in urban areas (87.5%). In this context, the present article analyzed the spatial distribution of the indigenous population in the state of São Paulo, drawing upon the analysis of census data and the preparation of maps using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This investigation enabled an integrated understanding of the indigenous population in both rural and urban contexts, as well as in officially recognized Indigenous Lands. The results showed that the indigenous population is distributed across most of the state of São Paulo, inhabiting most municipalities, albeit often in small numbers. In rural areas, a strong association was observed between the permanence of indigenous peoples and the existence of recognized Indigenous Lands, reinforcing the centrality of land and demarcation policies. The results lead to the conclusion that the city constitutes a contemporary indigenous territory, which imposes specific challenges and demands on public policies.