Amazon Watch mobilizes solidarity to address our grassroots Amazonian partners’ priorities via our Amazon Defenders Fund (ADF). This solidarity grantmaking is built upon a multi-decade track record as a trusted partner among Indigenous nations and local organizations and guided by the principles and cosmology of Indigenous peoples.
In late 2023, ADF mobilized several flexible, timely, and direct solidarity funds into the hands of Indigenous leaders, peoples, and organizations to advance the Amazonian Indigenous agenda of autonomy and self-determination. Below is a snapshot of how the funds we received from our generous donors were used.
Strengthening legal support in Brazil: APIB’s fight for Indigenous rights
The Association of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB) received a grant to bolster its legal department, a cornerstone in the fight for Indigenous rights in Brazil. With the new political landscape under President Lula and the establishment of the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples, APIB’s legal presence in Brasília has become crucial. The department’s expansion aims to enhance its capacity for political advocacy and legal action, especially in light of their recent efforts to protect the Yanomami peoples as well as the ongoing legal battle to defeat the Marco Temporal “time limit” trick which would undermine Indigenous territorial rights.
International advocacy: preparing for COP 28
Solidarity funds for MPI and ANMIGA’s delegation was a strategic move to support their participation at COP 28. This fund supported international consultancy, ensuring that their presence and voice at this pivotal conference was well-prepared and impactful. The detailed planning encompassed everything from organizing events to providing logistical support to the delegation, highlighting the meticulous approach needed for effective international advocacy.
Addressing injustice in Colombia: the Remanso case
Solidarity funds were dedicated to a Colombian delegation to Washington, D.C. which played a pivotal role in advocating for justice in the Remanso massacre case. Engagements with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and various meetings in the U.S. Congress were instrumental in challenging the narrative and seeking accountability, especially given the U.S. government’s involvement.
Ecuador’s fight against extractivism: protecting Indigenous territories
In Ecuador, the Kutukú Shaimi Protective Forest Committee’s fight against mining received a boost with support for solar internet access, crucial for communicating with allies and accessing timely information in hard-to-reach communities. Similarly, solidarity funding for the NASE Assembly 2023, emphasized the importance of unity and coordination among the Sápara nationality’s 23 communities in defending their territories against oil exploration and extractive pressures.
Supporting grieving families and access to justice
The tragic murder of Eduardo Mendúa, an A’i Cofán leader, and the subsequent support for his family, highlights the often-overlooked human cost of environmental and territorial conflicts. Additionally, the Alianza por los Derechos Humanos received a small grant for a campaign against Decree 754, reflecting the critical role of communication in human rights advocacy.
A global perspective: addressing Chinese investments and human rights
Support for CICDHA’s participation in the Universal Periodic Review of China in Geneva signifies the growing need to address the global implications of investments, particularly those affecting human rights and the environment in Latin America.
Empowering Peru’s Indigenous communities: a multifaceted approach
Peru’s Indigenous advocacy saw substantial support, with AIDESEP receiving solidarity for strategic advocacy and communication strengthening. This funding is aimed at combating deforestation and protecting territorial rights defenders. Additional support for the Gender Assessment Process helped to emphasize the need for gender-equity approaches in strengthening the power of Amazonian women leaders.
Regional efforts and organizational priorities
The regional focus included supporting Bolivia’s Indigenous forest firefighters, highlighting the need for preparedness in environmental disasters.
These activities led by our partners and in collaboration with Amazon Watch illustrate a multifaceted approach to Indigenous advocacy, encompassing legal support, international representation, communication strategies, gender equity, and women’s leadership. These initiatives, grounded in solidarity and a deep respect for Indigenous rights and environmental stewardship, are pivotal in the ongoing fight for justice, care, and revitalization of the Amazon and beyond.
ADF will continue and ideally expand upon these activities in 2024. We hope you will continue this journey along with the Amazonian people in these efforts!
