Indigenous communities of Amazonia are facing the devastating effects of covid-19, as are communities all over the world. Regions throughout South America are dealing with the pandemic without many resources or support from their states. With increased restrictions, these regions are dealing with disruptions in obtaining health supplies, food, and more. The effects of the virus have been drastic, with 2,911 cases detected across eleven Ecuadorian communities as of September 21.
The researchers of the Geography of Philosophy Project have also stopped all in-person research with communities of Ecuadorian and Peruvian Amazonia as a safety measure, but we have been active in other ways. Pedro Romero, GPP team leader based at USFQ in Ecuador, collaborated with the CONFENIAE and Amazon Watch to provide resources for capturing accurate data throughout the country. This effort included distributing covid-19 tests and creating an online map to track the virus spreading. Despite these efforts, these communities still require assistance.
Emanuele Fabiano, GPP postdoctoral fellow based at PUCP in Peru, organized a virtual seminar series where members from communities in Brazil, Columbia, Ecuador, and Peru could discuss the covid-19 emergency from an indigenous perspective. In late April, one event attracted 180 participants to listen to Shipibo guests from Pucallpa and Lima. Indigenous leaders argued that covid-19 is making a structural problem visible. The communities are seeking “specific medical care for indigenous peoples, a type of care that includes an intercultural perspective.”
One standing issue is making sure that any aid offered can effectively reach local community leaders, so that they can provide help directly to their people. One such organization is raising funds to Heal the Healers, benefiting Shipibo communities. The Amazon Watch has already matched $15,000 to this cause, and they are still accepting donations to help provide food directly to Shipibo communities in Peru. Amazon Frontlines is collecting funds to help protect communities of Ecuadorian Amazonia from the virus and a recent oil spill affecting the region.
Please consider making a donation
If you would like to support endeavors aiding communities of Amazonia during the covid-19 emergency, you can find a list of resources on our website. Please read further information provided by these organizations before donating.
The Geography of Philosophy Project is not affiliated with the campaigns listed. Our team of researchers aim to raise awareness of the current emergency in South America by providing access to information and fundraising initiatives.
