1 12 31 https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/b02dc6bd18c5162804bb9168d72a0af2.pdf b6d2f856db7a53c0b7c61663b17af493 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (26).pdf PDF Text Text nities are depressed. Alaska Natives resisting this process are encouraging members of the tribes to transfer title to the Tribal Councils from the ~ative Corporations, thereby protecting communal ownership. Free trade and privatization will benefit the business community, as is aptly noted in a headline in a Bureau of National Affairs publication called BNA International Trade Daily which states "Agricultural Reforms announced in Mexico should benefit U.S. Firms, specialists say." The Ta:rahuma:ra, Tepehuano, and Rammuri of Chihuahua want the government to recognize the ethnic and cultural diversity of Mexico and allow the Indigenous people to play a role in the national arena. They state: "For the Indians of the state to retain their identity and contribute to the identity and richness of the state, it is necessary to respect the territory that they have been defending for four centuries." H I I . ! 'I i J At midnight on Saturday, Dec. 28, 1991,200 state judicial police bearing sticks and firearms violently evicted 300 Tseltales and Cho'ol Indians from the steps of the MunicipalPalaceinPalenque, Chiapas. They had occupied the square two days before to protest police violence, unjustified arrests, and judicial abuse and corruption, and to demand access to interpreters in the court system. As a result,l02 people were arrested, including Jesuit priest Jeronimo Hernandez, and Cho'ol deacon Sebastian Torres. While being held incommunicado, they were beaten, dispossessed of their belongings, and pressured to sign declarations which they were not allowed to read. The Public Ministry of Palenque denied a request on the part of local government officials that prisoners be medically examined in order to certify physical injuries suffered. On Monday, Dec. 30, Hernandez and 92 Indians were re~~- The remaining nine were held without bail on charges which included disturbing the peace, inciting to riot, and sedition. On Saturday, Jan. 5, while government officials held formal talks with the organizations involved, sentences ranging from 10 to 40 years were handed down for the nine. Non- l I dian Freedom (CDLI), the Union of Indian Communities of the Chiapaneca Jungle (UCISECH), and Tsoblej Yu'un Jwocoltic Union, have since returned to the Plaza at Palenque, where they are holding a vigil to pressure for the resolution of their original demands and for the immediate release of the nine prisoners. governmental human rights organizations took the case to the government's National Commission for Human Rights. The wives of the incarcerated have received support from throughout the state of Chiapas, as well as from other parts of the country. Local merchants have financed paid aids requesting that the authorities respond to the Indians' petitions. Telegrams demanding freedom for the imprisoned have poured into the governor and Chief Justice's offices. Meanwhile, government-controlled farmer and workers' organizations have responded with a counter-campaign. On Wednesday, in Tuxtla Gutirrez, one of the judges in charge declared himself incompetent to continue with the case. The three organizations who sponsored the December sit-in, the Committee for the Defense of In- SAIIC Newsletter � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 300 Tseltales and Cho'ol Indians Violently Evicted (Mexico) Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Zotero Title 300 Tseltales and Cho'ol Indians Violently Evicted (Mexico) Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title Vol. 6, No. 3 (26).pdf https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/17bf27e435a45c97cf759a7cd049e42a.pdf 83adf2fd52026d82c7e3171181e82040 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (20-21).pdf PDF Text Text INDIGENOUS EOPL. MBIA ELP RAFT THE CONSTITUTION ~·~~~~~~-·~···~······· 0 ® <It <It @ @ @I <It @ @ €II €II • • Ill • • <II e <II The following infonnation was given to SAIIC by Alfonso Pahnas,Presidentofthe National Organization of Indigenous Peoples of Colombia (ONIC), while visiting in February 1992. •e o e e 20 111 • e e e e e e e e e e e e o e e At the demand of students, activists and the genernl population, the Colombian * government was obliged to call for elections to a National Constitutional Assembly * (NCA) on Dec. 9, 1991. Aside from a few minor reforms introduced by Colombia's two e * political parties, the liberals and the conservatives, the Colombian Constitution bad not Ill o been modified since 1886. Indigenous people bad never participated in constitutional : reforms, but this time the indigenous movement introduced two candidates, Francisco @I Rojas Birry of ONIC and Lorenzo Muelas of the Indigenous Authority of Colombia : (AICO). The indigenous candidates were elected despite lack ofexperience and funds and • the fact that a large portion of the indigenous population was not registered to vote and <II 111 did not even have the official identification required to register. The indigenous 111 movement was concerned with natural resources and regional development, and wanted e to change the constitution to declare Colombia a multiculturnl country. But they also • stressed the more general issues of democratic participation, human rights and resolution <II e of regional conflicts, and the candidates were elected with a large percentage ofnon- • SAl Newsletter j �Indian 'I'OteS. Once in the assembly they had to broaden their proposals to benefit'not only indigenous peoples but also the general population of Cololl)bia, especially those who like the indigenous peoples, live under oppression, discrimination, exploitation and misery and who struggle to build a better society. The indigenous movement achieved the following points in the new constitution: I. Right to Culture: Colombia is recognized as a multi-ethnic and pluri-cultural country. The great diversity and coexistence of cultural identities made up of values, customs, community practices, rites, religions and languages which differentiate one group from another are recognized. II. The languages of indigenous peoples will be official languages in their respective territories; and education will be bilingual and bi-cultural in those territories. III. Dual nationality is recognized for the indigenous groups who live on the borders With other countries, such as Brazil, Venezuela, Panama, and Ecuador. IV .Indigenous reservations are recognized as territories of collective ownership which cannot be sold, rented, or owned by other peoples because they are the communal property ofindigenous communities. These territories will be administrated together with the state. Indigenous Councils will be formed and a governor will be named for each department according to the practices and traditions of the indigenous communities. These councils can develop and design plans and programs for economic and social development; in addition they will watch over the conservation of natural resources, promote public investment and coordinate programs together with the community. V. Jurisdiction: In the indigenous communities there exists customary law which dictates how the members of the community act and how they are punished. This law is recognized but it varies greatly between communities and will be coordinated with the judicial system of the country. Nevertheless it will be indigenous peoples' authorities themselves who will judge and sanction penalties in indigenous communities, in accordance with their practices and traditions. VI.Permanent participation of two indigenous peoples in the Senate of the Republic, which is formed by 100 members, is guaranteed. Despite these gains the new constitution was a mixed victory. There was no change in the structure of the armed forces which have committed many human rights abuses against Indians. The constitution mentions indigenous communities and reservations but does not give Indians rights to their traditional territories. The government also retains subsoil rights. In December 1991 three indigenous people were elected to the Senate: Gabriel Muyay of ONIC, Anatolio Quira of the Indigenous Social Alliance (ASI), and Floro A Tufiu Gala of AICO. They face a great challenge because the Senate is dominated by the traditional parties, and groups working for change have less influence than they 6 Num 3 did in theNCA. The indigenous movement will have to mobilize the communities and get them involved in the law making process. They will also have to look for national and international solidarity to support their proposals in the Senate and they will have to fight to make sure the new laws protecting indigenous rights are enforced. It is clear to us that laws alone will not solve our problems. In fact we recognize that we need organization, autonomy, decision making power, permanent community work and active participation. In addition we acknowledge the need for changes within the political, economic, cultural, territorial structure of the Colombian state, changes which correspond to who we are as true Colombians and not to models which do not fit our needs. In conclusion, there were already laws in Colombia which protected indigenous peoples, but they were neither enforced nor respected. Even though the killings, massacres and persecution of our leaders continue, we will continue struggling to strengthen our unity, to attain autonomy, to preserve our culture and to promote and protect our right to work for change so that we can live in a just society with opportunity and dignity for all. 21 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource A Constitution For a Multicultural Country: Indigenous Peoples in Colombia Help Draft the Constitution (Colombia) Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Zotero Title A Constitution For a Multicultural Country: Indigenous Peoples in Colombia Help Draft the Constitution (Colombia) Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title Vol. 6, No. 3 (20-21).pdf https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/5af300bba6a574a0494bd6c85665561f.pdf 5a35de2c16ed8a855dd4014db39c1440 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource vol. 6, No. 3 (25-26).pdf PDF Text Text ciples and guidelines will continue to be discussed within each organization and in the Regional Workshops. This Coordinating Body calls upon all the progressive, honest and committed to join against the contra-celebration ofthe colonialist plans. In the same form, we call upon the popular sectors and the racially discriminated to form an alliance to struggle against the oppression, respecting, among ourselves our diversity. ""~-'' ..."'" Sector" In 1986, the Indigenous Movement initiated a campaign to disseminate information about the state of oppression underwhichour peoples live. The movement has taken the opportunity of t h e Quincentenazy asawaytolet El Salvador I I OnThursday,Feb.27,1500policeraided the Corte Azul Cooperative, arresting 60 Indian men, womenandchildrenanddestroying crops and supplies. The community members had peacefully occupied the unused government land to plant their crops. The police arrived at 7 am accompanied by three representatives of the United Nations Observation Team, reporters from a local television station and a group of local landowners. The police ordered the 250 workers from the Indian community of Costa Azul to leave their fields immediately, and when asked for a warrant ordering the displacement, they replied that they did not have one, but President Cristiani had instructed them to proceed as quickly as possible. The workers responded that their crops were already planted and that they could not leave them unattended. 24 the world know about the situation of repression under which Indigenous Peoples live; and to show our rejection of the celebration of the so called "V Quincentenary of the Discovery of America or the Encounter of the Two Worlds," led by the Spanish government and the Vatican and supported by the governments of the colonial states of the continent. Among the initiatives ofthenativepeoples of ABYA YALA have been to invite the different sectors of the society to organize a common front, based in mutual respect of the differences and characteristics among sectors. This indigenous proposal has been distorted, and usurped by sectors which have always carried out discriminatory practices. Their policy has failed in our region and in other parts of the world, because their project are far from the reality of Native Peoples, because they tried to impose a system of a homogenous society which is based in centralized and bureaucratic power which ignores the right of Indigenous Peoples to Selfdetermination. In conclusion, the Indigenous, Black and Popular Sector Campaign, does not respond to the demands of Native Peoples of the continent. In addition, the form in which it is structured does not guarantee that Indigenous proposals will be respected in the future, nor does it allow for an honest alliance based on the right of each people to decide their own destiny, no matter how small the group is. Therefore, this Coordinating Body calls upon all the progressive, honest and committed people to join us in the struggle of the I I At 2:15 p.m., in the presence of the ONUSAL officials, along with a captain, a second lieutenant, and the director of the National Police of Sonsonate, the police proceeded to intimidate the Indians with their weapons and then arrest 60 Indigenous workers and physically remove them to a nearby command station. The Indians were then taken to the nearby haciendaofDr. Guillermo Garcia Guerra, where the police officers were received with a special luncheon. During this time, the arrested men, women and children were made to stand and listen to the police say things like, "We should just machine gun these sons of bitches down to solve our problems." Hours later, they were transported to the Sonsonate police station and imprisoned and not allowed to speak with family members or lawyers until Saturday, Feb. 29, when they oppressed peoples, to join in contra-celebration of the colonialist plans. In the same form, we call upon the popular sectors and the racially discriminated to form an alliance to st:ruggleagainstoppression,respectingamong ourselves our diversity. Given in New York (Indigenous Land occupied by the United States), 5!5192. I were released. The following local landowners were with the arresting police officers: Andres Garcia Corona, Rafael Flores, Elsa Gutierrez Candel, Julia Leiva, Juan Martinez, and the three brothers, Carlos Chacon Moreno, Armando Candel Calderon, and Guillermo Garcia Guerra The Corte Azul and nearby Monzon cooperative members have received numerous threats in the past from these men, especially the three brothers, who flaunt their close ties to President Alfredo Cristiani. The crops, hammocks, blankets, beans, com, crates, day frying pans and comales, and a food storage hut were destroyed in the raid. Source: ANIS (National Association of Indigenous Peoples of El Salvador) I As Mexico works out the details of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the government is in the process of restructuring the country's agrarian laws to, among other things, allow the privatization of ejido lands. Though in principle the new laws respect the territorial integrity of Indigenous peoples, the Indians have reason to be skeptical. Their lands are coveted for tourist and agribusiness expansion. "We do not want hotels and other things that do not belong to us on our land," they stated. "We do not want to worldorothers who come to own the land." In principle, free trade is contrary to Indigenous beliefs, "We do not negotiate the land, or the forest, or the animals; we the Raramuri do not work in order to make business of our land" Fundamentally different philosophies about human relationships to the earth arise when passing privatization policies. "The land is the one who sees that we grow, she is like our Mother who gives us nourishment, the one who takes care of us, she is all we have." One of the significant victories of the Mexican Revolution was the 1917 Agrarian Reform Law which established communal land ownership in the ejidos. The ejidos are communal farms formed from expropriated large estates on which farmworkers are given free access to small plots. Ejido tenure is nontransferable. However, under constitutional changes proposed in November by President Carlos 6 Num 3 SAIIC Newsletter present reforms to [article] 27 of the constitution will give new impulse to the invasion of indigenous territory, against the justice that the spirit of the law seeks." The Indians say that, asitis written, "Thisreformisonlyforthe benfitoftherich,itisnotinfavorofthepoor.... The ejido should stay as it is." The Indians therefore proposed the inclusion of the following sentence to article 27: "the law protects the territorial integrity of Indigenous peoples." Salinas de Gortari, communal ownership and land distribution under the agrarian reform law would end. The amendment to Article 27 of the Constitution, was promulgated on Jan. 6, the final stage of its approval. Article 27 as amended, will abolish restrictions on corporate ownership of land (including ejido land), and farmers on ejidos (ejidarios) would be allowed to own their land outright and to rent or sell it to non-ejidarios. The law provides for the abolishment of constitutional obligations for land distribution and Indian ancestral claims, insitutional reforms, and relaxation of the limits to property size. The COSYDDHAC proposal sent to Fernando Baiza Melendez focused specifically on Article 27, section VII of the Mexican Constitution, which refers to lands of Indigenous communities. The statements by the Indians challenged the government's very right to legislate their lives and lands: "The government did not plant the grass, this was planted by God. The government did not give us the grass, God gave it to us. The trees are not government property, nor does the grass belong to the government; therefore the government cannot take our land" The legal process was criticized: "We are called only when we are needed to sign, and we are not givenexplantionsaboutwhatwearesigning." The COSYDDHAC proposal states "The In the proposal to the State of Chihuahua, Indigenous groups expressed concern over the uncertain future of their lands. The statements from the people included: "What is going to happen to our children? They will have nowhere to go, nowhere to live because all that once was ours will pass to others' hands." Elders areconcernedfortheirdescendants, "We the older ones will die, however what will our youth live from if they are not to inherit even the land, which is ours and which gives us what we· eat" History has confirmed their concerns. The privatization of lands held communally by Indigenous nations is a common strategy to weaken their self sufficiency. In the late 1800's the United States Dawes Act allotted acreage to male heads of households, and males over 18 years of age. This created a fictitious surplus of lands that were then sold to settlers. The Indian landholders then split up their land to give to their children, who had the power to sell. Within three generations, 90 percent of the lands allotted under the Dawes Act were expropriated by settlers. The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of1971 allows Native shareholders to sell shares of their lands to non-Indians beginning inl991. Thustheirlandsaremorevulnerable to takeovers by private corporations, especially when the economies ofindian commu- 25 �nities are depressed. Alaska Natives resisting this process are encouraging members of the tribes to transfer title to the Tribal Councils from the ~ative Corporations, thereby protecting communal ownership. Free trade and privatization will benefit the business community, as is aptly noted in a headline in a Bureau of National Affairs publication called BNA International Trade Daily which states "Agricultural Reforms announced in Mexico should benefit U.S. Firms, specialists say." The Ta:rahuma:ra, Tepehuano, and Rammuri of Chihuahua want the government to recognize the ethnic and cultural diversity of Mexico and allow the Indigenous people to play a role in the national arena. They state: "For the Indians of the state to retain their identity and contribute to the identity and richness of the state, it is necessary to respect the territory that they have been defending for four centuries." H I I . ! 'I i J At midnight on Saturday, Dec. 28, 1991,200 state judicial police bearing sticks and firearms violently evicted 300 Tseltales and Cho'ol Indians from the steps of the MunicipalPalaceinPalenque, Chiapas. They had occupied the square two days before to protest police violence, unjustified arrests, and judicial abuse and corruption, and to demand access to interpreters in the court system. As a result,l02 people were arrested, including Jesuit priest Jeronimo Hernandez, and Cho'ol deacon Sebastian Torres. While being held incommunicado, they were beaten, dispossessed of their belongings, and pressured to sign declarations which they were not allowed to read. The Public Ministry of Palenque denied a request on the part of local government officials that prisoners be medically examined in order to certify physical injuries suffered. On Monday, Dec. 30, Hernandez and 92 Indians were re~~- The remaining nine were held without bail on charges which included disturbing the peace, inciting to riot, and sedition. On Saturday, Jan. 5, while government officials held formal talks with the organizations involved, sentences ranging from 10 to 40 years were handed down for the nine. Non- l I dian Freedom (CDLI), the Union of Indian Communities of the Chiapaneca Jungle (UCISECH), and Tsoblej Yu'un Jwocoltic Union, have since returned to the Plaza at Palenque, where they are holding a vigil to pressure for the resolution of their original demands and for the immediate release of the nine prisoners. governmental human rights organizations took the case to the government's National Commission for Human Rights. The wives of the incarcerated have received support from throughout the state of Chiapas, as well as from other parts of the country. Local merchants have financed paid aids requesting that the authorities respond to the Indians' petitions. Telegrams demanding freedom for the imprisoned have poured into the governor and Chief Justice's offices. Meanwhile, government-controlled farmer and workers' organizations have responded with a counter-campaign. On Wednesday, in Tuxtla Gutirrez, one of the judges in charge declared himself incompetent to continue with the case. The three organizations who sponsored the December sit-in, the Committee for the Defense of In- SAIIC Newsletter � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Agricultural Reform Threatening Indian Lands (Mexico) Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Zotero Title Agricultural Reform Threatening Indian Lands (Mexico) Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title vol. 6, No. 3 (25-26).pdf https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/db2b3897b11708ddd45fe3b3233bfc7a.pdf c1bee2a17cd266b2a69d0cd4407e28f6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource vol. 6, No. 3 (36).pdf PDF Text Text � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Back Cover Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Zotero Title Back Cover Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title vol. 6, No. 3 (36).pdf https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/f0e72820ed1e62d41e258d97e44cfcd9.pdf c5d61b42791cd330344e082e621c3000 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (1).pdf PDF Text Text SOUTH AND MESO AMERICAN INDIAN INFORMATION CENTER Newsletter AMAZON Vo/6 No 3, Spring & Summer 7992 INDIANS DEMAND TO BE HEARD � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Cover Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Spring & Summer 1992 Zotero Title Cover Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title Vol. 6, No. 3 (1).pdf Abstract Note Cover of Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Language English Pages 1 Publication Title SAIIC Newsletter Volume 6 Issue 3 Amazon Indians March on Quito https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/917449888192bfd0efa85fff59d23ce5.pdf 3ca96a718a9727f27715f96679c1fc20 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (19).pdf PDF Text Text In one blow the drought and freeze of 1978 destroyed thefurureofNiooJasMullisaca, who as the eldest child would have been responsible for his parents' land. Like many other children ofcarnpesinos, he was forced to leave for La Paz in search of work. "It was not a happy day, but it was the only choice because there was nothing to eat For a carnpesino, leaving the land that our ancestors have farmed for generations is always a very sad thing." NicoJas Mullisaca, and later his five brothers, started out as casual laborers in the city of La Paz. He became a mason and has worked in this profession ever since, except for two years when he went looking for gold fora company in Tipuani where he nearly died of tuberculosis. For one year now he has worked as a mason for a construction company with about 30employees. Itis hard work, with a timecard to punch and pay docked for arriving even a little late. He travels an hour from the worksite in the center of the city to his home with his wife and eight children in the barrio of Pasankeri. Pasankeri is located high above La Paz and is one of the final rungs in the ladder of suburbs which climb up out of the city. It is the last barrio before arriving at Ciudad Sarelite at the very peak in El Alto. Their pig stays in the lower part of their yard. Above, there is a little patio that his wife Ceferina uses to wash clothes and prepare the Vol 6 Num 3 food,andwherethekidsandthedogplay.The adobe house has two rooms, and alongside the bed stands a sewing machine that the tWo parents use. Spanish and Aymara are spoken in the Mullisaca family household, Spanish because it is more practical in the city, and Aymara so the children don't lose their culture. "I dream of opening a tailorshop in Pasankeri. For a year and a half I've attended a sewing course at night here in my barrio and soon I'll be done," says don Nicolas. His wife has attended a course in weaving and is hoping to get a loom. But with ten stomachs to fill, they live hand to mouth and it's practically impossible to pull together the necessary capital to start their own business or save the 150 bolivianos that a loom costs. "I will probably be a mason for many years to come, and knowing this, I take on as much responsibility as the others in working to form a union to ask for better wages." At one time he was a campesino leader in his village. Many migrant families suffer from the harsh conditions of the city, and from not even knowing their neighbors and have to face frequent periods of unemployment "We worry about the children and fear that they willfallin with delinquents or drugs," explains Ceferina Mullisaca. "In the countryside, life is far more peaceful and safe." "Sometimes mestizos and white people ride by in mini-vans and humiliate us for being Aymara. They harass us as we carry our loads and accuse us of being dirty." In the city, access to medical attention and education is easier. Yet without money, life in the city is impossible, while in most cases, people in the countryside can live from what the land yields. "Work in the city is boring and makes us feel like slaves. For a campesino, work is also hard but at least you feel free, and the work is interesting," said Nicolas Mullisaca. His parents still live in the countryside and he and his family return during planting and harvesting to San Andres Machaca, a village located in the province ofingari, three hours to the west of La Paz, near the Peruvian border. For NicoJas and Ceferina, going to the country is like returning home, while their children treat these visits as outings. "I am not ashamed of my roots as an Aymara and a campesino. I am proud of our culture. When my children grow up, I hope to go back and live in my village." "But to make this happen, we will need economic help for digging wells and better tools to work the land We're never going to get these with governments run by the rich who could care less about the problems and needs of poor campesinos," said Nicolas. He adds that "so long as neoliberal policies hold sway, migration from the country to the city is sure to continue." Source: Aquf, [Chuquiyawu, Bolivia] 19 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Drought: Aymara Campesinos Forced to Migrate to the Cities (Bolivia) Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Zotero Title Drought: Aymara Campesinos Forced to Migrate to the Cities (Bolivia) Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title Vol. 6, No. 3 (19).pdf https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/7513f49faa9929f6aef0d3bd3bb6f423.pdf ee16943157bf0ac6d6af9db3fb4409f2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource vol. 6, No. 3 (3).pdf PDF Text Text Since the publication of our previous SAIIC Newsletter, Indigenous unity and continental organizing continues to be a subject of dynamic discussion. More Indigenous peoples have been contacted, and we have witnessed encounters with younger leaders, men and women, who continue to take political responsabilities within Indian communities. This year's meetings have resulted in strengthening ties among Indigenous peoples. They have helped to clarify our positions within the larger spectrum of societies, and international organizations. The Indigenous perspective is contributing to promote a process of mental decolonization, and is opening spaces of dialogue unknown before. Demands Printed on Recycled Paper PRINTED WITH SOY INK � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Editorial Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Spring and Summer 1992 Zotero Title Editorial Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title vol. 6, No. 3 (3).pdf Abstract Note Editorial Issue 3 Language English Pages 3 Publication Title SAIIC Newsletter Volume 6 Ecuador Editorial Indigenous people https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/70b7ab721f5dd561a9e499d7a309e3f5.pdf 3f671a804f2fe167397ee1de6f3069f4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (10-13).pdf PDF Text Text I SAllC: What region do you come from and who do you represent? AP: My name is Alfonso Palmas, I come from the department of Tolima from the interior of the country, and represent ONIC (Organization of Indigenous Nationalities of Colombian), of which I have been the president since June, 1990. SAllC: What is the role of ONIC? AP: Our role is to train, orient and promote organization in the indigenous communities, because we believe that it is the indigenous peoples who must look for solutions to our own problems. ONIC promotes programs, we like to promote inter-ethnic relations among the different ethnic groups in the country and with those in other countries. SAllC: What is the indigenous population of Colombia, and how many groups are there? AP: There are about 100 indigenous groups, and we speak more than 80 languages and are located all over the country. SAHC: How would you describe the situation of the indigenous communities in Colombia? AP: Up to this moment the wave of violence against indigenous peoples continues in Colombia: very often the leaders are persecuted and even assassinated. We continue to face colonization of traditional lands- that is indigenous lands are still being taken - 10 Alfonso Palma, center, describing the situation in Colombia at the SAIIC office with representatives of the Tommtzin land Institute and Bay Area Indian Alliance the drug problem, guerrilla organizations ... all these groups have lack of respect for the indigenous communities. In addition, a major problem is that of communication, there is no permanent communication. We have no means to communicate among ourselves, much less with indigenous communities of other countries. The state does not provide us with anything, in fact the government has sponsored division among us by creating organizations similar to, but self-sufficient from those of the indigenous peoples. Therefore we cannot analyze or understand other communities problems, nor can we be updated on issues which involve us, or evaluate the actual national situation. Another problem is the exploitation of natural resources by foreign and even national companies. They never consult with the in- digenous communities and their acts only bring more problems for us. First of all, the cultural clash. Then, contamination of all living creatures and plants, and death of our people. Also, we have land but no means to produce, and if we do produce then the production goes through an intermediary and this person retains all the profit, leaving the indigenous with little or almost nothing. SAllC: Can you tell us about the massacre of Dec. 16 and what ONIC does in such cases? AP: In Colombia there are, legally speaking, "indigenous reservations", these cannot be sold nor rented (leased), and they are imprescriptible; that is the indigenous communities can claim them whenever they want. In this case there are many territories SAUC Newsletter �with colonial titles that belong to the indigenous communities, but the fanners, ranchers, and landowners, and production companies have kicked out indigenous communities by violent means, and this is what has happened in Colombia. In the case of the massacre, the killing took place in the department of Cauca in the PAES territory, where they had been reclaiming their land from the government for four years. However, this land has been invaded by big landowners who form large groups and send them to kill the indigenous. In this case, the indigenous had communicated to the government about their claims, however, the State did not answer, therefore the massacre took place. In these cases, ONIC, f:rrst of all issues denunciations at the national and international levels. We've denounced this and many otherproblems which are unknown totheinternationalcommunity.Forexample, the massacre of December last year, where five compafieros were burned alive by narcotraffickers. We denounce all of this violence against indigenous peoples. Last year ONIC met with the Government Ministry, and the senators and we demanded that the state respond to all of these acts of terror and what the State was doing to investigate. Until now, all we know is that there is an investigative commission and that there is a negotiation being carried with the institute oflandreform. However, we are pessimistic about these type of investigations because our experience is that such investigations do not bring any results, as occurred with the indigenous peoples of the Aruaco community, where the armed forces and even government people were involved, and nothing was ever done. In that case, more than 20 compafieros were assassinated. SAllC: What are the activities of ONIC planned for 1992? AP: At the local level, we are working with the organizations in the interior of the indigenous communities. Weare working with students, professors, the popular sectors, blacks, environmentalists and other people who see in the campaign a positive aspect, that it is important toreflectandcultivate our magnificent and rich culture, also that we evaluate and reflect what these 500 years have meant for our culture. Also in the Vol 6 Num 3 proposals for the Constitution we have to make clear that Colombia is a multi-ethnic pluricultural country, and we have to work closely with other indigenous peoples who are working on the campaign, who have similar and different problems, so that we can create bonds of fraternity and unity among indigenous and non-indigenous peoples. SAllC: There were 3 indigenous representativeselectedtothecongressofthecountry. Who are they? What are their proposals to the national Constitution? AP: Compafiero Gabriel Muyuy, representing ONIC, and Anatolio Quira of the Social Indigenous Alliance and Floro Alberto of the Autoridades Indigenas de Colombia. They represent different indigenous sectors, however we are trying to work in unity and present our proposals together. In addition, we believe that by having our own representatives we can have a voice; we are open to work with other people and like that other sectors of the society of Colombia work with us in problems which affect not only the indigenous peoples but all Colombians. Concerning the issues of the national Assembly, we have obtained that in the constitution it be stated that Colombia is a pluricultural state; the harmony of many cultures is declared; the issue that the state must protect our nationalidentity, that is our customs, traditions, language, all that makes us different. We have now achieved the recognition of our languages in our territories, that education be bilingual. We have about 40 groups who live near the border with other countries and the governments do not understand that for indigenous peoples there are no borders. So now they have double nationality. Another achievement is the recognition of ownership of our territories. Right now there is a discussion with the government because the government does not want to recognize territories traditionally occupied, which are large extensions. They want to recognize only the reservations; now we will struggle for the recognition of traditionallands, reservations. For this we are proposing a plan to the government so that we do not have foreigners coming to our communities and plan our development, but instead that this planning be left to us, once 11 �we're trained. Another important aspect is that of juri~diction; that is each community has its own form of sanction and imposition of penalties. We will try to fix this according to the national system. Now this is considered. Another issue is that in relation to the natural resources, its exploitation must be consulted with the indigenous peoples. For this we are hoping to write a guide, rules from all indigenous Peoples communities, that will be followed, because even if there are already laws they do not represent our view, nor are they followed. However we must organize within the communities, so that we can face the problems and present plans. For this we are planning a meeting for December 1992 to discuss the problems we have, how will we participate politically speaking. INCORA is the institute in charge of handling land issues, conflicts; there are large extensions which have been traditionally occupied by the indigenous peoples who have always lived there and have no titles for it They are called "traditionally occupied". The reservations are where INCORA has handled titles, but this sort of land is not defined yet. SAllC: If you could realize anything in the world, this year of 1992, what is the outcome you would hope for? AP: At our level it will be that the Constitution serve our interests and not those of a few people, as has happened historically. We want to retain our cultures. We hope to unify at the continental level. We want to avoid past mistakes and work towards understanding among different communities; we are not going to celebrate the genocide, we want to analyze the past so that we can work for the future. We want to make demands on the UN since 1993 has been declared the year of indigenous peoples. We want a strong United Nations (UN) presence so that human rights violations be watched carefully and that something more than just condemnations be made. We want protection. SAllC: What role do you see the government playing in this multi-ethnic and pluricultural state? 12 AP: I believe that the government should facilitate changes. They are not only indigenous peoples but blacks and other groups; the government should protect the culture and promote overall cultural development. SAllC: What do you say to the Crioles, Campesino people who are afraid of losing land while indigenous peoples recuperate their lands? AP: First of all, we are not claiming land which is not ours. Our claims are over lands which we have been on for hundreds of years; therefore we believe that if there are cases where there are Campesinos who have come to our land due to many problems, we demand the government carry out an integral agrarian reform, that they be relocated to lands where there are no indigenous communities, and to lands where they can survive and develop economically. SAllC: What ONIC is doing about education? AP: We are talking to the government We are participating in certain areas of education, such as health and agriculture. We believe that the state should provide access to education for indigenous peoples because it is only in this form that we can become independent and govern ourselves. SAllC: Can you comment on the continental struggle against 500 years ofcolonization? AP: By being here and after exchanging views and talks with other people, I acknowledged the we the indigenous peoples all through the continent face the same problems such as land recognition, development, etc .. We must acknowledge how can we unify and defend ourselves as communities. First of all, indigenous peoples' lands must be recognized. Secondly, thestatemustrespect cultures, different cultures from those which were brought to Latin America by the Europeans. Therefore we must communicate and join together in order to demand this from states and from the UN. We need to develop a means of communication. We need to know the problems of our brothers and sisters in other countries. In reference to SAIIC Newsletter �the campaign, we must develop the campaign in an autonomous form that is because the situation, even if it similar, is also unique in each country. We do have commonalities. We have' to negate these state celebrations and come up with specific proposals, because for us the campaign does not end this October. In fact, this is only the beginning; the plans of the Indigenous Continental Alliance is to continue working for the rights of indigenous peoples and others with similar problems to those we have. Therefore the campaign for us goes beyond this year. SAllC: What does development means for Indigenous Peoples in Colombia? At the community level, we can talk about how to develop solutions, alternatives on development In Colombia we are trying to fmd solutions for our communities. AP: In Colombia, with the so-called economic internationalization, or the economic aperture, the indigenous communities will suffer problems because most of these projects carried out in the name of development will exploit and explore the wealth, the natural resources, diversity, wild life. In the area of the Choco (Pacific coast) and the Amazon, the resources are being negotiated behind our backs. These negotiations are going to be carried out among the government and the large foreign companies. They do not consider the people living there. We are never consulted. We need to put international pressure on the government. SAllC: What do these Continental Conferences mean for the communities? SAllC: What is economic development for indigenous peoples in your opinion? AP: First of all, we discuss and share to analyze the situation of the indigenous people of the continent. We want to know what the specific problems of indigenous peoples are. Once we acknowledge this, we can start to think about solutions, alternatives which we ourselves formulate. Those encounters try to fmd this diagnosis of the problems, but also through them we solidify our links at the continental level. AP: First of all, let's look at the word development, for us development is not just economics, it is integral; that is to have autonomy, to have organizational and administrative capacity. In these terms, when promoted like this, we can realize development for the community as a whole. Most of the time when talking about economic development, it means to have economic possibilities for the betterment of our compafieros. For us, however, it would not just mean individually, but at the collective level; it means to propose solutions for the community. We have to generate many alternatives such as appropriation of technology, credit possibilities, adaptation of an economy proper to us, an economy that allows us to control our means, that allows the communities to develop their autonomy. In Colombia, since we have such a variety of indigenous peoples, we say that our country can achieve development once the communities and their cultures have developed to the upmost. This identity of the country is important to look at from different points of view, in the mutual harmony of different communities, so that we learn to live and recognize cultural and historical differences, which have been denied for 500 years. We consider that this identity of Colombia must be looked at from its territorially, regions, religions, anthologies, different cultures, rites, practices. We have to analyze what is Colombia, because throughout all of the years in Colombia others have been wanting to impose one culture, different to ours, and this is not possible. We are a country rich on cultural traits, therefore we must try to live in harmony among all of these cultures. Vol 6 Num 3 SAllC: Can you talk to us about environmental organizations in Colombia? AP: I believe that the environmental organizations and indigenous peoples have one thing in common, that is the defense of nature, of the environment. However, we indigenous peoples go beyond that, we defend human life too. We have to initiate a dialogue so that we can work for nature but also for human life. Environmental organizations can coordinate international actions so that projects are carried out only if indig- enous peoples have been consulted. Wereally need to work on a dialogue in order to see how indigenous peoples can work together with environmental organizations. SAll C: Could you please talk about culture in Colombia? AP: One of the main purposes of ONIC is to protect and promote indigenous peoples' cultures. We consider that culture is an authentic expression of peoples or a specific group; that is, their very own traditions, practices, form of government, values, organization, adaptation to changes maintaining their values. One of our achievements has been the recognition of a multi-ethnic society, country. For us, education is important because through it we learn to value our culture, because right now we have problems mainly with religious organizations which want to wipe out our cultures and create foreign one. Through education we value our cultures and learn the differences SAllC: What about oil companies in Colombia? AP: There are now oil companies going to Colombia wanting to explore and exploit our lands in search of oil and other precious minerals. In our proposals to the constitutional reforms we proposed recognition of our right to the land; that is, the soil and subsoil, because for us land is property which belongs to the community and soil and subsoil are not separate, they are an integral part. However the state did not want to recognize this right, because they know there is enormous wealth, so there is an article which states that where there are minerals, oil, or other exploitable resources there will be consultations with the indigenous peoples. At this point the foreign companies are experimenting in many places in order to find oil and other resources. Where there is oil the govemment takes the land even if it belongs to the indigenous peoples. It is for this reason that we believe it is crucial that we organize so that we can defend ourselves, that we learn Spanish so that we can talk their language and conduct a dialogue. March 1992 13 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Facing Colonization: Interview with Alfonso Palma, President of ONIC (Colombia) Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Spring and Summer 1992 Zotero Title Facing Colonization: Interview with Alfonso Palma, President of ONIC (Colombia) Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title Vol. 6, No. 3 (10-13).pdf Abstract Note SAIIC interviews Alfonso Palmas, the president of ONIC (the Organization of Indigenous Nationalities of Colombia) about his role in the organization, the goals of the organization, and more. Issue 3 Language English Pages 10-13 Publication Title SAIIC Newsletter Volume 6 Alfonso Palmas Colombia ONIC Spring 1992 Spring/Summer 1992 Summer 1992 https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/f3275ce2cca8283dac7f929b14e08f4c.pdf 5fb918a5cb99dafb7e0d79edd02cafb0 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource vol. 6, No. 3 (9).pdf PDF Text Text Brasil IL The Brazilian military controls 25 million acres of land in the Amazon. Presidential decress have alloted and reserved 36 areas for the armed forces. According to Angelo Pansa, · an Italian priest who is a member of the International Tribunal for the Rights of the People and who is also active in CIMI (Indigenous Council of Missionaries) there are 6 areas that trancede Indigenous lands, totally or partially. In the southern part of the state of Para, where 2,600 Indians live, the military holds 16 million acres, an area twice the size of the Kayap6 Indian reserve. The majority of the land reserved for the military is devoted to the establishment of living quarters, the stationing ofbatuilions and border platoons as well as for military training in areas that are remote and sparsely populated. Source: Jornal do Comercio, 2111192 (via alternex) OLD-MI SPRE Dl TO I Indigenous women and young girls in the Amazon have been contracting venereal diseases from gold miners and soldiers. According to CIMI (Indigenous Missionary Council) and Indigenous leaders from Para,Amazonas and Acre, many of them, lured to the cities, end up in brothels and in the trafficking of babies throughout the Amazon. "Prostitution among indigenous girls is alarming. Indigenous women come to the city and don't have job qualifications, so selling their bodies becomes the only alternative", said Antonio Apurina, Coordinator of UNI-Acre (The Union of Indigenous People in Acre). Anthropologist Antonio Maria de Souza confrrms that soldiers have been known to gang rape Indian women in the city of Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira, on the border of Brazil and Colombia, in the state of Amazonas. Source: Folha de Siio Paulo, 2110192 (via alternex) 6 Num 3 9 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Gold-Miners and Soldiers Spreading Veneeral Diseases to Indigenous Women (Brasil) Type The nature or genre of the resource Magazine Article Language A language of the resource English Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Spring and Summer 1992 Zotero Title Gold-Miners and Soldiers Spreading Veneeral Diseases to Indigenous Women (Brasil) Item Type Magazine Article Attachment Title vol. 6, No. 3 (9).pdf Abstract Note The second paragraph featured on page nine discusses the problems faced by indigenous women in Brazil regarding their sexual health. There is an alarming rate of prostitution and venereal diseases contracted from miners and soldiers. Issue 3 Language English Pages 9 Publication Title SAIIC Newsletter Volume 6 CIMI Indigenous Health Indigenous women prostitution Venereal disease https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/484704b3a30850a5de5b02cbc56804da.pdf 056d507e88ec94524325550194542474 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource vol. 6, No. 3 (7).pdf PDF Text Text l E F After one hundred years, the first reunion of the Mapuche nation took place in Neuquen, Argentina. Over a hundred lonkos, spiritual leaders of Nagmapu, Chile, and over 200 traditional leaders of different communities in Argentina met to analyze the situation of marginalization and oppression that the national states of Chile and Argentina are imposing on the Mapuche people. They also reaffirmed their historical rights of existence as a nation, the rights to exercise their traditional law and speak their own language, and walked and canoed there from their communities 150 miles away on the Peruvian border. Men, women and children nervously set out from Puyo on the 11th mthe pouring min, holding leaves and plastic over their heads to keep dry. When they entered a community, throngs of people met them, offering donations and support. On their fourth day out, they were greeted by musicians and a fiesta mthe Indian village of Salasaca. The community had built bamboo huts m thecenteroftown forthemarchers to rest The "Salasacas" opened all public facilities to them and greeted them with speeches of solidarity. Over one-half of the marchers' enormous needs for firewood, food, drink, blankets, clothing, shelter and medicine were met by donations from communities along their route. In a press release, the Indians stated, "Our historic walk has defmitively changed the relations between Indian people and the white/mestizo society: the demonstrations of solidarity with our objectives are a clear sign that it is possible for us to live side-by-side, respectful of unity within our diversity." Many of the marchers came down with severe colds and were treated by one of the doctors and/or shamans accompanying the march. The people of the Pastaza rainforest are accustomed to a very warm climate at near sea-level. During the march, they had to climb to altitudes of up to 14,000 feet where the nights were sometimes below freezing. In reaction to the gala jubilee celebra- Vol6 3 E p E agreed on the creation of a Mapuche flag. reunion ended with a ceremony with participation of more than a thousand people. A complete report will be published in the next SAIIC newsletter. Also for more information write to: NehuenMapu Barrio Islas Maluinas Batilana 315, Neuquen, Argentina tions being planned by governments and corporate interests throughout the Americas and Europe to mark the 500years since Columbus began the process of colonization of Indian lands, leaders of the march declared, "Now is the time for de-colonization, the time to recognize our rich cultures and build a new Ecuador." 7 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Historical Reunion of the Mapuche Nation (Argentina) Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Spring and Summer 1992 Zotero Title Historical Reunion of the Mapuche Nation (Argentina) Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title vol. 6, No. 3 (7).pdf Abstract Note The text box featured at the top of page seven provides a brief synopsis of the reunion of the Mapuche Nation in Argentina. Issue 3 Language English Pages 7 Publication Title SAIIC Newsletter Volume 6 Argentina Mapuche Mapuche Reunion https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/d9b303caf3a0084f54645e4c5781b2bb.pdf a596ce0fa95529966f4e4c3998f4a712 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (18).pdf PDF Text Text 5 1a D~ODD~~ ~~OD cS~~CP[]:0 ~rn~ovrnm.0 ~rnrnu "Nearly 150 Indian leaders from the La Paz provinces came together in a planning and consciousness-raising meeting to consolidate the Assembly ofNationalities," reported Zenobio Quispe, permanent secretary of the Federation of Campesino Worlcers of La Paz (Tupaj Katari). During the event, campesinos of La Paz, struggling for unity, reiterated the need to establish their own political party and assembly of nationalities, and determined thatthelndirufeonfederationshould be formed, under its own laws, and its own political constitution "until Aymara, Quechua, Guaranies and other nationalities assume power." The participants reject the celebration of the quincentennial because Oct. 12 is a dateofpain and mourning forcampesinos and Indians of the continent. For this reason, they will demonstrate with a reaffirmation of their cultural identities and 18 ~ against ethnocide, genocide, and the destruction of cultural values. Ideological Unity The participants will ask professionals committed to the cause of Native peoples for their support in creating documents and school texts, both historical and othexwise, which will encourage Native cultural values. "This first meeting has been positive, because with the initiativeofthecampesino and Indian authorities, we have accepted the responsibility of strengthening our organizations," said the Director of Tupaj Katari attheconclusionofthemeeting. He indicates that the most important step is to organize because the Indian, campesino, worker, and popularmovementshave been weakened in the current political climate. "In spite of the adverse situation, campesinos and Indians have accepted the great challenge of establishing the assem- ~CQ) ~~ CP~~ bly ofnationalities and a political party, to provideanaltemativeforthemarginalized and oppressed sectors of Bolivia." Seventh Congress The seventh congress of the Federation of Campesino Workers of La Paz (fupaj Katari) will be held Dec. 20-22. At this event the Federation will discuss the situation of the campesinos, who categorically reject property taxes and demand that the government fulfill the numerous obligations it has made to agricultural workers. The Federation of Campesinos of La Paz, which seems to be consolidating itself after several actions which were interrupted by official militants, "has decided to fmm anew pluralist executive committee, but only with leaders who fight for the people and not with those who have sold out to the oligarchy's parties." Source: Semanario Aqui [Chuquiyawu, Bolivia] SAIIC Newsletter � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource In Search of Unity: Indian and Campesino Leaders Meet in La Paz (Bolivia) Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper Article Language A language of the resource English Zotero Title In Search of Unity: Indian and Campesino Leaders Meet in La Paz (Bolivia) Item Type Newspaper Article Attachment Title Vol. 6, No. 3 (18).pdf https://www.abyayalanews.org/files/original/fcb92a27da211d168250356aa3e4d5af.pdf 31c6e81eadcae6bcb4235305f65c1a73 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource vol. 6, No. 3 (35).pdf PDF Text Text I Indigenous leaders meeting at the December 1991 NGO conference "The Roots of the Future" in Paris signed a declaration demanding that governments and international organizations guarantee the rights of Indigenous Peoples to self-determination and control over their natural resources. The declaration rejects the celebration of the "QuincentennialoftheDiscovery ofAmerica" and states that "the 11th of October, 1492 was the last day of freedom for the Indigenous Peoples of America". The signers also demand the right of Indigenous Peoples to participate in the UN Conference on Environment and Development to be held in June in Brazil. Thelndigenousleaders wish to present an alternative modal for sustainable development based on the traditional harmonious relationship between Indians and the environment. They reject the western development 'i ! ! Letter from the Indigenous Delegates present at the Palace of Nations in Geneva Switzerland, to the Pope. Geneva, August 1, 1991 i Chief of State of the Vatican Pope John Paulll Rome, Italy ! The indigenous delegates present at the Palace of Nations, in Geneva, Switzerland, in debate regarding the Universal Declaration of the rights of indigenous people, convened by the "Working Group of Indigenous People" of the United Nations, hereby present and declare: In view of the declaration on May 3, 4, 1493, of the Papal BulllNTER CETERA, by which territories of indigenous people are conceded to Spain and Portugal, without taking into account the material or spiritual rights of the indigenous people in case of ABYA-YALA (America) and other parts of the world; In defense of the sacred rights of the indigenous people, and in promotion of human dignity and harmony that should reign among humanity on this planet, For all these purposes: l)we demand from the vatican state a denunciation of the unilateral treaty Pope Alejandro 34 modalbasedonamarketeconomywhichonly benefits the powerful and which is responsible for the destruction of the environment through over exploitation ofnatural resources. The following is the introduction to the declaration: We, the Indigenous Peoples of the world have been constructing, since the ancestral times, a culture, civilization, history and a view of the world which have pennitted us to co-exist hrumoniously with nature. This normalprocesswasinterruptedinAmericain1492 VI, as being contrary to the Universal Human Rights of Peoples. 2)whereas the year 1993 completes 500 years of a supposed spiritual conquest without clear rectification of this universal injustice, allowing the nation-states that have benefited from the inherintance of Pope Alejandro VI to continue progranunes of genocide and etlmocide, denying the indigenous people the recuperation of a harmony based on reciprocal human respect, we demand that the Papal Bull of May 3, 4, 1493 INTER CETERA be annulled. 3)we direct John Paulll to accede to universal concepts of justice including the spiritual and material rights of indigenous peoples, in furthereance of life, harmony of human beings with our Sacred Mother, and the spiritual peace of the Great Creator in accord with the cosmovision of each one of our indigenous peoples, free from all oppression. Thus we proclaim in the name of Human Dignity, in harmony with our Mother Nature and in the Spirit of Truth. Signed, the indigenous delegates, and organizations. • I (Panama, Ecuador) Indigenous mostprogressiveandlndian-friendly,''said Peoples do not expect a significant reduc- CONAIE president Luis Macas. tion in the rate of destruction of the environment after the United Nations He criticized governments andNGOs Conference on the Environment and De- for giving little importance to the "human velopment (UNCED) to be held in Rio de aspects of conservation" during preparaJaneiro in June, and demand that their tory discussions for the Earth Summit. voices be heard at that conference. "We have seen governments and environmentalists from both North and South get For the Confederation of Indigenous deeply involved in discussions on People of Ecuador (CONAIE), the nature biodiversity and technology, but without of the pre-UNCED negotiations held so speaking about us (Indians), who have far seem to point to the meeting being conserved theEarthformillennia,"Macas "great theater, with few concrete results". said. Oswaldo de Leon Kantule, a youth leader of the Kuna People ofPanama, said that he is opposed to the conference. He charges that it only provides a forum for governmental and non-governmental organizations and leaves out the native populations who are "the true defenders of Mother Earth." by the European invasion of the continent and has meant genocide, the negation of our culture, the violation of our human rights, racial discrimination, the usurpation of our natural resources and the occupation of our territories and sacred places. Currently the Indigenous Peoples find themselves very affected by the necessity created by the economic and cultural system imposed by the great powers and governments. At the same time we have contributF.Ai to the "development", sacrificing our peoples and resources without receiving any compensation. For a copy of the full text send $3 to SAilC. SAIIC Newsletter Delegates from the Ecuador ethnic conference had attended the Pre-UNCED negotiations which began in Kenya in August1990andendedlastMarchinNew York. For Macas, those who took part in the discussions "forgot the Indian tribes, who for centuries have lived in the forests and the high plateau of America." De Leon insisted that the UN summit He said Indigenous groups throughofficially recognize Indian groups as the out the world would present to the Rio true environmental protectors and give summit a report showing how the Indians them a forum from which to voice their view the universe and demanding that all demands after five centuries of exploita- economic activity in areas inhabited by tion, death and extennination. Indians be administrated by the Indigenous groups themselves. Indigenous groups say official documents to be signed at the Rio meeting would hardly stop the current rate of environmental destruction in the region. "It will be a grand spectacle where each government will want to appear the 6 Num 3 Powerfulcountriesmustincreasetheir economic aid, but at the same time, change their paternalistic and imperialistic outlook on he south," said Macas. He blamed the market society and the capitalistmodel for75 percent ofenvironmental deterioration in the world. Vianor Perez, Kunaactivist, described as "contradictory", the fact that Latin American governments wholeheartedly back the conference and at the same time, approve of the cutting down of the Amazonianforest.Everyyear,closeto200,000 acres of forest reserves are destroyed, tenitory which for centuries has provided food and shelter to the Indian population. "A fundamental issue that the conference must discuss is the Indians' right to use their own land," said Kuna leader de Leon. "If some kind of agreement is not reached, the Indigenous people of Latin America will only be left with the air they breathe and the little land that surrounds them now." "We indigenous peopleofBrazil don't expect much from that conference," said Allton Krenack, the Coordinator of the Union of Indian nations in Brazil. "Because the governments who will participate have made the decision a long time ago about their environmental police. It is really just a show." Source: Inter Press Service and SAIIC 35 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vol. 6, No. 3 (Spring and Summer 1992) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Indian People Criticize Earth Summit Type The nature or genre of the resource Magazine Article Language A language of the resource English Zotero Title Indian People Criticize Earth Summit Item Type Magazine Article Attachment Title vol. 6, No. 3 (35).pdf