Hello everyone! My name is Alicia, and I am here to ask for donations on behalf of several indigenous communities located in the Peruvian Amazon. Last year, my class and I had the wonderful opportunity to explore a small portion of the Amazonian rainforest with leaders from the Maijuna. The initial purpose of the trip was to discuss sustainable development methodologies that Indigenous communities have had for generations. During this trip, we were inspired and awestruck by the innovation and resilience that lives within these communities. The Yague is pictured here teaching us sustainable methods of dyeing all-natural fibers and creating infrastructure, all doing so in a way that does not harm their local environment. Additionally, there is information pictured below of a highway that has been proposed to be constructed, going right through sacred (and previously protected) Maijuna indigenous territory. Last but certainly not least, La Escuela de Manati, a wonderful school just off the Amazonian river basin, is filled with teachers who have a passion for sustainability and fostering the next generation. To say this trip was "just a field study" is an understatement. Every single one of us was deeply touched by the communities we interacted with, and it would be our pleasure to give back in any way possible. As Dr. Collins prepares for the next trip to the Amazon, I wanted to start this fundraiser. I want this to be the very beginning.
But where will my funds go?
- Maijuna: Legal fees to protect their sacred land, tree climbing harnesses (to harvest fruit), and solar panels to help generate sustainable and reliable energy. The list could go on, but I would like to prioritize as much as possible.
- Yague: Any help with transportation costs, for both the Yague and Maijuna, the nearest primary or secondary school could be miles away. And let me be clear, there are not many modes of transportation through the jungle. The children deserve a safe pathway to their education.
- Escuela de Manati: Being one of the few schools along the Peruvian Amazon river, anything, and I mean ANYTHING, could help. This money could go to help them have up-to-date books and physical teaching materials. This could help install running water so the children may use the restroom or wash their hands at school. Additionally, this money would help fund the sustainability programs the school already has in place.
As the next group of students embarks on this journey, I hope they may pass the message along to these communities, they are not alone, and they have not been forgotten. A HUGE thanks is owed to Jackie of Jamazon has already made meaningful connections and helped the communities of the Peruvian Amazon immensely. Additionally, much MUCH gratitude for Dr. Collins whose intent is not just to inform, but to inspire and motivate a generation of students to fight for the greater good. I will be trusting both Dr. Collins and Jackie to help me distribute the funds, I have kicked off the fund with a gift card I won from presenting the findings of this trip.
Organizer
