The quilombola community of Menino Jesus, located near Belém, Brazil, is engaged in a struggle for land rights against a proposed landfill that threatens their environment and way of life. This community, which has existed for six generations, is made up of descendants of enslaved people who sought refuge in the forest. They have developed a sustainable lifestyle that is now at risk due to plans for a landfill that could devastate their land. Despite their proven role in preserving biodiversity, with lower deforestation rates than other areas, they face challenges in gaining political recognition. Only a small percentage of Brazil's quilombola population has legal rights to their land. While recent climate talks have acknowledged Afro-descendant communities, many feel their voices are still not adequately represented. The community emphasizes the importance of their connection to the forest for both their survival and the health of the environment.