Threats against Amazonian communities and their leaders are on the rise. As we work to proactively confront the root causes of these situations, we must also respond to specific cases. The international reaction to the recent death threat against Shipibo-Konibo leader Miguel Guimaraes is a notable example.
Upon hearing from Miguel about the latest threat (he has received others before), we immediately took action along with allied organizations. Within days, we collectively provided emergency funding to keep Miguel and his family safe, generated press coverage to bring attention to the threats, and facilitated high-level meetings with the diplomatic community in Lima.
We also issued a global call to action, and you responded! Leveraging a tweet following a meeting with the U.S. embassy and the United Nations Human Rights office, hundreds of international allies boosted the message to their networks, and many people sent solidarity messages to Miguel.
We translated these messages into Spanish and ensured Miguel received them, prompting a video statement of appreciation. If you participated in the action or shared it with your community, this message is for you!
“I’m Miguel Guimaraes Vasquez, of the Shipibo Konibo Indigenous people and currently the Vice President of AIDESEP. Recently, people entered my house violently, burning windows, and painting a written threat that ‘You won’t live.’ It’s concerning because as Indigenous leaders and defenders of human rights, we are the visible face of the movement. But behind us, many other leaders are being killed or receiving death threats. In the Peruvian Amazon alone, over 34 leaders have been assassinated for defending their forests and territories. I have been denouncing narcotrafficking, illegal mining, and the expansion of mono-crops that violate the collective rights of Indigenous peoples.
“We appreciate all the international support from many allies, including defenders from around the world who have expressed solidarity in my case. Also, I appreciate the action led by Amazon Watch, who I thank for this effort and for bringing visibility to my case. It’s a joy for me that so many people from around the world know about the situation we are facing in the Peruvian Amazon. Thank you so much for all the support!”
Is Miguel completely safe? Unfortunately, we can’t assume that given the ongoing danger in Peru. However, we will continue to stand by him and many other defenders who risk their lives for their communities and the Amazon rainforest.
We count on your continued support and solidarity for this critical work. Thank you!
