Thousands of Indigenous people gathered in Brazil's capital, Brasilia, to advocate for the official recognition of lands they have inhabited for centuries and to safeguard these territories from illegal activities like mining. The demonstrators, carrying posters with messages emphasizing Indigenous rights, marched towards Three Powers Square, where key government buildings are located.
During the protest, a group of Indigenous leaders met with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to address their concerns, while others voiced their demands outside the presidential palace. The Indigenous community expressed disappointment over the government's recent decision to halt the creation of four Indigenous territories due to opposition from state governors.
Aside from land recognition issues, some tribes also protested against a proposed 950-kilometer rail project aimed at transporting soybeans from Mato Grosso to ports along the Tapajos River. Leaders from the Kayapo, Panará, and Munduruku tribes raised objections, citing inadequate consultation and fears of increased deforestation.
The rally marked the conclusion of the annual Free Land Indigenous Camp, which highlighted a critical stance towards Lula's administration. Indigenous representatives expressed concerns over political instability, lack of respect, and a sense of betrayal by the government. They emphasized the need for more proactive measures to protect Indigenous territories.
While Lula's administration has established 10 Indigenous territories since his return to office, Indigenous leaders argue that this progress is insufficient. According to the Socio-Environmental Institute, there are over 250 pending claims for land recognition awaiting government approval.
Indigenous territories currently make up approximately 13% of Brazil's land area, primarily located in the Amazon rainforest. Despite some advancements under Lula's leadership, Indigenous demands continue to face opposition from the influential agribusiness sector, which enjoys support from numerous lawmakers and governors nationwide.
The Indigenous community's ongoing struggle for land rights recognition underscores the complex dynamics between environmental conservation, Indigenous rights, and economic interests in Brazil.
