The fight against deforestation is indeed a global struggle, but it is first and foremost the fight of local populations. These lands, beyond being the lungs of humanity, are the ancestral birthplace of many tribes. Let’s discover who these women are, their fight, and how we can support them because their struggle is also ours.

The Amazon: Forest Guardians in Action

Yuturi Warmi: The "Strong Ants" of Ecuador

In Ecuador, the Yuturi Warmi women's collective, composed of Kichwa women, patrols their territories to protect the forest from mining exploitation. They monitor water quality and preserve local biodiversity. Their name, meaning “strong ant,” symbolizes their resilience and determination.

Mujeres Amazónicas: A Coalition for Environmental Justice

Founded in 2013, Mujeres Amazónicas brings together more than 100 women from seven Indigenous nationalities in the Ecuadorian Amazon. They oppose extractivism and defend women’s rights, health, education, and Indigenous culture. Their efforts led to the creation of the Casa de Mujeres, a space for healing and leadership for Indigenous women. 

Nemonte Nenquimo: A Voice for the Forest

Nemonte Nenquimo, a Waorani leader, successfully led a legal campaign to protect 500,000 acres of Amazon rainforest from oil drilling. She co-founded the Ceibo Alliance and Amazon Frontlines, organizations dedicated to defending Indigenous rights and the environment. 

The Arctic: Preserving Lands and Traditions

Quannah Chasinghorse: Activism and Culture

Quannah Chasinghorse, a Gwich'in and Oglala Lakota model and activist, uses her public platform to raise awareness about climate issues and Indigenous rights. She advocates for the protection of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and denounces gender-based violence affecting Indigenous women.

Puyr Tembé: Political Leadership in Brazil

Puyr Tembé, co-founder of the Ancestral Indigenous Warriors (ANMIGA), became the first Secretary of Indigenous Peoples of the State of Pará in Brazil. She works to include Indigenous voices in climate policy and to protect ancestral lands.

International Initiatives and Support

Organizations such as Amazon Watch and Amazon Frontlines work with Indigenous women to strengthen their leadership and promote sustainable economic alternatives. Public figures like Jane Fonda support these efforts, calling for the recognition of Indigenous land rights and the protection of the Amazon.

Organizations to Support

1. Amazon Frontlines

   This organization works directly with Indigenous communities to protect the Amazon rainforest. You can donate to support their on-the-ground efforts.

2. Amazon Watch

   They support projects such as the *Casa de Mujeres Amazónicas*, a space for healing and leadership for Indigenous women in Ecuador. Your contributions help fund these initiatives.

3. Land Is Life

   This program offers grants to young Indigenous women to develop community-based projects focused on land rights and gender equality. Donations fund these grants and associated training.

4. WECAN International

   This organization supports Indigenous women leaders in protecting the Amazon through education, participation in international forums, and direct action.

Arctic Initiatives

1. Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada

   This association represents and defends the rights of Inuit women in Canada, focusing on issues such as health, justice, and violence prevention.

2. Saami Council

   A non-governmental organization representing the Sámi people in Nordic countries, it works on Indigenous rights and environmental protection.

Other Ways to Support

Donate: Most of these organizations accept online donations.

Volunteer: Some offer volunteer opportunities, either on the ground or remotely.

Raise Awareness: Share information about these causes on social media or in your community.

Educate Yourself: Read books or articles written by Indigenous women to better understand their struggles and perspectives.

Indigenous women play a crucial role in defending the environment and human rights. Their commitment, often at the risk of their safety, is essential for preserving biodiversity and fighting climate change. Supporting their work and recognizing their leadership is a key step toward a more just and sustainable future.