How Are Kichwa Women Fighting Illegal Mining? 💪

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I came across an inspiring story that I just had to share with you. It’s about a remarkable group of women from the Ecuadorian Amazon who are making a huge difference in their community and the environment.

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The Brave Women of Yuturi Warmi

Yuturi Warmi translates to ‘conga-ant women.’

In 2020, over 40 Kichwa women came together to protect their territory from illegal mining, forming Yuturi Warmi, the first Indigenous guard led by women in the region. Among these courageous women is María José Andrade Cerda, or Majo, a 28-year-old leader passionately defending her community. Majo and her fellow Yuturi Warmi members are like the fierce Yuturi ants, always ready to protect their home.

Since illegal miners arrived, life in the community of Serena has changed dramatically. The women are always on alert, ensuring that miners don’t encroach on their land. Despite these challenges, Majo and her community remain resilient, drawing strength from their cultural and spiritual connections to the land.

From Handicrafts to Guardianship

Yuturi Warmi began as a group making and selling handicrafts to support their families. But when their territory was threatened by mining, they knew they had to take action. Now, these women are organized and ready to defend their home from any threats. What makes Yuturi Warmi special is their comprehensive approach to territorial defense. They focus on guardianship, handicrafts, education, ancestral medicine, tourism, and culture, ensuring they protect not just the land, but their way of life.

Achievements and Challenges

Yuturi Warmi has already made significant strides in their fight against mining. They’ve managed to have over 150 mining machines removed from their territory and continue to push for full restoration of the damaged areas. The journey is long and hard, but these women are determined.

Majo emphasizes the importance of community in their struggle. The support and wisdom of their grandmothers and ancestors are vital to their efforts. The younger members learn and grow from the older generations, creating a strong, united front against external threats.

Did You Know?

The Yuturi Warmi women have not only become guardians of their land but have also significantly impacted local governance, bringing attention to illegal activities and pushing for stronger environmental protections.

Best, Laura 🌞

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“The forest is not a resource for us, it is life itself. It is the only place for us to live.”

– Evaristo Nugkuag Ikanan, Indigenous leader from the Amazon