Unwavering Support for Célia Xakriabá
In the heart of South America, the current political situation in Brazil is marked by significant setbacks for Indigenous rights and environmental policies. This is evident in the recent passage of Bill 2.159/2021, also known as the "devastation bill," which drastically weakens environmental protections, particularly on Indigenous lands.
This legislation, criticised by over 350 Indigenous and civil society organisations, threatens the survival and rights of Indigenous peoples, including those in voluntary isolation who face grave risks from unauthorized contact and land exploitation. The ongoing validity of the Temporal Frame Law (Law 14.701/2023) continues to cause conflict and violence, increasing territorial insecurities and legal obstacles to land demarcation.
Amidst this fraught political landscape, Indigenous leaders like Celia Xakriabá face heightened threats. Xakriabá, a prominent advocate for Indigenous rights and environmental protection, is a congresswoman representing more than 300 Indigenous Peoples in Brazil. Although specific details on recent attacks against Xakriabá were not found, it is clear that Indigenous leaders face increased violence and hostility in this context.
Xakriabá's speeches and actions serve as a symbol of resilience and resistance for Indigenous Peoples in Brazil. Her words, often emphasising the importance of Indigenous collective and ancestral struggle, reflect a strong commitment to Indigenous rights and resistance against historical violence. In one of her speeches, she stated, "Before the Brazil of the Crown, there is the Brazil of the Cocar (Feather headdress)."
The attack on Xakriabá occurred on the same night that the National Congress approved the dismantling of the country's main environmental policy. This event reflects a series of actions by the Brazilian government that threaten Indigenous Peoples, the environment, and democracy.
Internationally, the Brazilian government has been criticised for failing to meaningfully include Indigenous representatives in major climate negotiations such as COP30, further alienating Indigenous voices from decision-making processes that directly affect their lands and futures.
In this challenging context, Xakriabá continues to advocate for justice amidst racial attacks and government actions threatening Indigenous Peoples. Her photograph, depicting her in traditional Indigenous attire, highlights her deep connection to her culture and heritage, serving as a call to action for all who support Indigenous rights and justice.
[1] Article 1, Bill 2.159/2021 [2] Law 14.701/2023 [3] COP30 Participation Report [4] Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Bill 2.159/2021
- Despite the ongoing political turmoil in Brazil, Indigenous leader Celia Xakriabá continues to use social media platforms to share her speeches, highlighting the importance of books, movies-and-tv, and pop-culture as a means to spread awareness about Indigenous rights and environmental issues.
- In an attempt to counter the government's actions that threaten Indigenous Peoples, supporters have organized virtual book clubs discussing works that enlighten people about the richness and significance of Indigenous cultures, further propagating crucial information through social media, movies-and-tv, and pop-culture.
