Thousands of Indigenous people have converged in Brasilia, Brazil, for the 20th Free Land Camp, an annual event aimed at holding the government accountable for its promises to create reserves and remove illegal miners and land-grabbers from Indigenous territories. The focus of this year's gathering appears to be on President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's administration, which has fallen short on commitments.
Last week, Lula announced the creation of two new reserves, a fraction of the six promised for April. The delay in establishing additional reserves was attributed to state governors' input and the need to relocate around 800 non-Indigenous individuals from the designated areas. This move has sparked frustration among Indigenous groups, with calls for upholding their constitutional rights and expediting land demarcation processes.
According to the Socio-Environmental Institute, there are 251 pending Indigenous territories awaiting recognition by the federal government. Indigenous leaders, such as Alessandra Korap of the Munduruku tribe, expressed disappointment in the government's slow progress, particularly in the face of opposition from the agribusiness sector, which wields significant influence in Congress and among governors.
The protest in Brasilia has drawn around 8,000 participants, with more expected to join throughout the week. The camp features traditional activities like dances, handicraft sales, debates, and political demonstrations, underscoring the Indigenous community's determination to secure their rights and protect their lands.
Despite the challenges, Indigenous groups remain steadfast in their demands for land demarcation and preservation of their cultural heritage, signaling a continued struggle for recognition and justice in Brazil.
