Bolsonaro "declares war" on Brazil's indigenous people
Bolsonaro "declares war" on Brazil's indigenous people
Saturday, 5 January 2019, 11:41 am
Press Release: Survival International
Jair Bolsonaro has started his Presidency in the worst possible way for the indigenous peoples of Brazil. Taking responsibility for indigenous land demarcation away from FUNAI, the Indian affairs department, and giving it to the Agriculture Ministry is virtually a declaration of open warfare against Brazils tribal peoples.
Tereza Cristina, the new head of the Ministry, has long opposed tribal land rights, and championed the expansion of agriculture into indigenous territories. This is an assault on the rights, lives and livelihoods of Brazils first peoples if their lands are not protected, they face genocide, and whole uncontacted tribes could be wiped out.
This onslaught on Brazils first peoples attacks the heart and soul of the Brazilian nation.
The theft of indigenous territories also sets the stage for environmental catastrophe. Tribal peoples are the best conservationists and guardians of the natural world and evidence proves they manage their environment and its wildlife better than anyone else.
More:
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/WO1901/S00014/bolsonaro-declares-war-on-brazils-indigenous-people.htm
Editorials and other articles:
https://www.democraticunderground.com/1016223260