Indigenous

Peru’s New Forestry Law Stirs Controversy: Indigenous and Environmental Groups Warn of Accelerated Amazon Deforestation

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BOGOTA, Colombia — A recent legislative change in Peru that alters the Forestry and Wildlife Law has drawn severe criticism from environmental and Indigenous groups. They argue the amendment could fast-track deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest, often referred to as the Earth’s “lungs,” under the pretext of promoting economic growth. Previously, landowners in Peru were required to obtain governmental authorization before transforming forested areas for other purposes. This safeguard has been removed, raising concerns that such a move could sanction years of illegal deforestation. Alvaro Masquez Salvador, an attorney affiliated with the Indigenous Peoples program … Read more

“Moloka’i Bound” Shines with Dual Wins at 44th Hawaii International Film Festival, Highlighting Indigenous Talent and Local Narratives[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0mRPMX-WCc[/embed]

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Honolulu, Hawaii – The stunning backdrop of Oahu set the stage for the 44th annual Hawai‘i International Film Festival (HIFF) held from October 3-13 at Consolidated Theatres Kāhala. The festival spotlighted a mix of local and international films, closing with a private awards gala at the illustrious Halekūlani Hotel on October 12. The winners of the festival’s juried awards were announced during the gala, signaling a successful competition especially for films made in Hawai‘i. A highlight of this year’s festival was the impressive showing of Hawai‘i films. Local filmmakers particularly shone brightly, taking home a … Read more

Beneath the Flames: A Tacana Leader’s Stand to Shield Indigenous Villages from Amazon Wildfires

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RURRENABAQUE, Bolivia — On a day tinted with the acrid smoke of the Amazon ablaze, Dario Mamio Serato stood alone wielding a machete, his efforts a desperate bid to carve a break in the fuel feeding the inferno rapidly nearing his village. As smoke obscured the sky and panic filled the air, the survival of three indigenous Tacana villages hung precariously in the balance, with dozens of families still scrambling to evacuate. The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the planet’s lungs, was suffocating under a blanket of smoke, and with it was Serato, a … Read more

Melbourne International Film Festival 2024 Spotlights Emerging Filmmakers and Honors Indigenous Cinema with Prestigious New Awards

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Melbourne, Australia – The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is set to make waves this year with its announcement of a distinguished jury panel for the $140,000 Bright Horizons Award, aimed at recognizing emerging filmmakers. The festival is also generating buzz with the introduction of the Uncle Jack Charles Award, honoring the legacy of the late actor and activist. The Bright Horizons Award, dedicated to first or second-time directors, showcases innovative and visionary talents from across the globe. Ivan Sen, an acclaimed Australian filmmaker, will serve as the jury president. He is joined by an … Read more