Tourism as a “Tecnologia Social”: The Case of Ururay Group

Summary The notion of social technology introduces a novel paradigm for technological advancement that emphasizes inclusivity, participation, and democracy. It is rooted in the idea of local citizens as empowered agents. Within this framework, we spotlight the initiatives of Grupo Ururay, a collective based in the East Zone of São Paulo. Through cultural, touristic, and educational endeavors, they have illuminated the pivotal role played by Black and Indigenous communities in shaping the city’s history. The crux of our argument lies in portraying the collective’s utilization of tourism as a social technology, effectively employing it as a catalyst for societal transformation. To substantiate this claim, we will delineate some of the group’s initiatives and delve into the significance of revitalizing and celebrating counter-hegemonic histories within São Paulo’s urban landscape.