WE ARE STILL HERE
The rapid pace of global change often makes me wonder: What thoughts and emotions arise within individuals who find their culture, language, history, and livelihoods under threat? What does it truly mean to defend one's way of life when faced with such overwhelming pressures? I find myself even more concerned when I consider the implications for future generations. Will they have the freedom to express themselves openly? Will they have access to vital natural resources, such as forests and clean water, that are essential for their well-being and survival? The similarities between the lives of these inspiring individuals and marginalized communities in our contemporary society are striking. The freedoms of all of us are in jeopardy.
I captured these images in the Brazil between 2019 and 2022, a region that has experienced significant environmental and social challenges in recent years. The photographs serve as a visual testament to the complex realities faced by communities whose lives are deeply intertwined with the Amazon rainforest, and make me contemplate the profound impact of global change on both the human and natural worlds and consider our collective responsibility to protect vulnerable cultures and ecosystems.
Aldeia Cipia, Alto Rio Negro 2019
On the banks of the Rio Negro, just north west of Manaus, Brazil, sits a beautiful little village named Aldeia Cipia. This was the first contact I had with indigenous peoples in the Amazon. This village provides a space for indigenous refugees from Columbia, Venezuela and other areas where they have had to flee their home villages for various reasons, from mining, logging and even drug fabrication and cartel threats. Efraim (pictured below) was one of the first people I got to connect with. He approached with the sweetest curious energy as I was setting up my little base in the hut that was provided for me. Over the next few days he toured me around the village and surrounding areas barefoot or by boat. He showed me the various plants, insects and other components that make up that magical place.
One day I was walking around the village alone, absorbing the energy, calmness and appreciating the fact that I was walking in an indigenous village in the amazon. It was a moment of deep gratitude, awareness of my blessings and great joy. (I get a little teary eyed as I type this, remembering what it felt like.) I heard giggles behind me at some point and turned around to see three little girls in their grass skirts, covering their mouths as they laugh (pictured below).
At the time I hadn't learned Portuguese, which is the non indigenous tongue that most speak in Brazil, though they did speak Spanish. These little girls though only spoke in giggles. I got down on one knee and handed them my camera, which of course was hilarious to them so more giggles came. I realized in that moment that we can connect in deep and simple ways by simply opening our hearts to others and sharing what we have in any given moment regardless if we speak giggles or not. .
This sweet village invites travelers to visit and learn about their culture, traditions and way of life. That openness is one of the ways they sustain themselves. Through tourism and visitors they are able to live with one foot in the jungle and the other in the modern world. Using social media and other modern tools to attract visitors that want a gentle experience of the traditional Amazonian lifestyle, they bring in vital revenue to support their goals in protecting the earth and educating others on indigenous ways of life.
Acampamento Terra Livre, Brasilia 2021
Every year in April, indigenous people from all over Brazil gather in Brasilia, the nation's capital for the "Acampamento Terra Live". Their intention is to strengthen their culture, interact, inspire and make their voices heard. This powerful gathering features song and dance, impactful speeches by indigenous leaders and a spotlight on indigenous affairs in the public eye. In this image (above) we see a group gathered in prayer as the sun sets in Brasilia..
One of the things that hit me directly in the soul was that indigenous peoples, when gathered in great numbers, vibrate or channel, amplify (not sure how to describe it) but radiate this powerful force of the earth in human form. The diversity of songs, colors, shapes and smiles is very reflective of what I experienced in the jungle. Yet here we are in the middle of the Federal District of a major industrialized nation. Surrounded by government buildings, traffic, Mc Donalds and other modern expressions.
To this day I still feel the impact of attending this powerful event and its part of what inspires me to support indigenous culture, rights and territory demarcation. I know first hand how these people naturally protect, maintain and embody large areas of land (their territories) and in doing so sustain the eco system that is the Amazon. With out their presence, the Amazon would be transformed into a huge factory farm for cattle, soy and other international products. This would deeply impact our climate, our weather systems and ultimately our lives.
Encontro Tenetehar, Alto Rio Guama 2021
The Tempe people of Para, Brazil are part of the greater Tenetehar people, which includes the Guajajara people living in the state of Maranhao. These two groups were separated due to political boundaries being set in the past. In August 2021, they gathered together in a historical reunion and ceremony of reconnection and celebration. I was there documenting the event and bonding with the communities that welcomed me into their families. It was a moving and inspiring experience that, to me, represented a powerful rebellion against the imposed borders and separation that outsiders projected on a once unified people.
Another mission I had during my time in the Amazon was to empower and amplify the indigenous voice. I was fortunate enough to be able to train various indigenous young people in communications, storytelling, cinematography, photography and journalism. It was a life changing experience. With the help of generous partners, I was able to bring cameras, computers, drones and other storytelling tools for them to use in sharing their wisdom and experience with the world.
We often think that we have a solution or that our ideas are what they need, This experience solidified to me that what we can offer is support for their mission, providing them with tools to further and expand what they are already doing. I share other opportunities we have to support their fight and movement in my free guide "Katu".
The Forest Guardians
In every village a group of volunteers form the guardians. These individuals are the modern day warriors of indigenous culture. They volunteer their time at great risk for their lives and at their own expense, to patrol the territory borders to expel land invaders, monitor deforestation and protect their ancestral lands. Currently the various Indigenous led organizations and NGO's are fighting to have the guardians be a federally recognized organization with funding and support from the government as they provide a valuable service to the nation.
Over the years, many guardians have been killed for their contribution. Whether it be in the jungle surveilling their territory or in front of oppressive governments protesting and speaking their message. These people remind me of the power and strength that lives in each of us and how we can summon it when co-creating the world we want to thrive in.
My time in the Amazon has forever changed my perspective and approach to life. I remain eternally grateful for the experience and share it with you with the intention of encouraging you to prioritize curiosity and a deeper connection with yourself and others. Thats exactly what the experience was for me. The reward is quite difficult to articulate other than a deep feeling of gratitude and belonging. Thanks for viewing. If you would like to learn more or join the community, follow me on social media and download my free guide KATU - 10 Ways To Support Indigenous Warriors In The Amazon.