Showing Support for Célia Xakriabá
In the heart of Brazil, Indigenous leader and deputy Celia Xakriabá continues to face political attacks and cultural ridicule as the country witnesses ongoing threats to Indigenous rights and environmental protections.
"Before the Brazil of the Crown, there is the Brazil of the Cocar," Xakriabá recently stated, using the symbolic Cocar (Feather headdress) to challenge the colonial interpretation of Brazil. This quote, carrying significant symbolism in the Indigenous movement, underscores Xakriabá's unyielding stance against the government's actions.
The attacks on Xakriabá are not isolated incidents but reflect a political project by the Brazilian government to silence Indigenous Peoples. The same night that Congress approved the dismantling of Brazil's main environmental policy, Bill PL 2.159/2021, dubbed the “Devastation Bill,” Xakriabá faced racial attacks in the Congress without a proper response from the Speaker.
This legislation, referred to as the "Devastation Bill," undermines Indigenous and human rights, as well as environmental policies, directly contributing to the silencing and marginalization of Indigenous Peoples like Xakriabá. The dismantling of Brazil's environmental policies, coupled with this legislation, has accelerated environmental devastation and diminished Indigenous communities' influence over their lands and cultural heritage.
As a representative, Xakriabá is one of the great voices of resistance to the historical violence threatening Indigenous territories, cultures, bodies, and ways of life. Her use of the Cocar symbol may signify a strong, unyielding stance against the government's actions, embodying the agenda of over 300 Indigenous Peoples in Brazil.
Xakriabá, an Indigenous woman leader, continues her journey in the Indigenous movement, advocating for collective and ancestral struggle. As a key figure in the resistance against the policies of the Brazilian government that threaten Indigenous Peoples and the environment, her statement is a call for justice in the context of her work.
The photo accompanying this article is courtesy of Celia Xakriabá herself, showcasing her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The Brazilian government's actions against the Indigenous leader and the environment are part of a larger political project, aimed at destroying the environment and weakening the institutions of democracy. Efforts to protect Indigenous defenders are increasingly urgent, as highlighted by recent congressional sessions attended by Deputy Xakriabá advocating for Indigenous protection measures.
[1] "Indigenous leader Celia Xakriabá faces cultural ridicule amid threats to Indigenous rights and environmental protections in Brazil." News Source, Published Date. [2] "Brazil's Congress passes 'Devastation Bill,' undermining Indigenous and human rights, environmental policies." News Source, Published Date. [3] "Celia Xakriabá, Indigenous leader, advocates for Indigenous protection measures in the face of ongoing threats." News Source, Published Date.
- The wave of criticism facing Xakriabá doesn't stop at the political arena; her image has become a target on social media, where entertainment platforms and celebrities have been seen mocking her stance and her person.
- As the struggle of Celia Xakriabá for Indigenous rights and environmental protection continues to appear in general news and pop-culture discussions, her resilience against crime and justice system bias is gaining recognition.
- In the realm of policy-and-legislation, there has been growing demand for an amendment to the Devastation Bill, aiming to restore protections for Indigenous Peoples, human rights, and the environment.
- The ongoing clash between Xakriabá and the Brazilian government over Indigenous rights and environmental protection has extended to international forums, sparking debates on politics, human rights, and climate change at global platforms.
