
Print_it2112.jpg


The Kayapo people are the Gê-speaking native peoples of the plain lands of the Mato Grosso and Para states in Brazil, south of the Amazon Basin and along Xingu river and its tributaries. Women from the Gorotire sub-group dance and celebrate. Using global media and international attention, they have established political power over their own land. At one time, mining and logging threatened to destroy the rainforest, and thus their way of life. In retaliation, the Kayapo people used forceful tactics to banish loggers and miners in some areas, as well as establish themselves as an economic force. Later, they were again threatened by secretive government plans to build a series of hydro-electric dams on their land. Under the leadership of Paulinho Paiakan, the Altamira Gathering was orchestrated in 1989 by the Kayapo, drawing media attention worldwide. This demonstration, staged at the planned site for the first dam in Altamira, Para state, lasted several days and brought much pressure upon both the World Bank and the Brazilian government. In addition, the rock star Sting made an appearance at the demonstration. After which, but not because of, the World Bank denied the request for a loan which was to be used to build the dam. The Brazilian government backed out of the plans, as well.
© J. R. Ripper / BrazilPhotos 7 Apr 2011 5388x3539 / 12.8MB
IMPORTANT: This image will be printed at White House Custom Colour in Eagan, Minnesota / USA and shipped worldwide. WHCC operates satellite photographic and press printing facilities in Dallas, Texas and Fresno, California. It can only be used for home / office / public places decoration or collection. No reproduction allowed. Because of the inherent color & tonal differences between your computer monitor and the professional printing presses, what you see here may print distinct on paper or other materials. Be sure the perfectionist tecnicians at WHCC enhance every image so that every print that leaves their hands looks great. Just add the image to the cart and a variety of sizes will be available to you. Special requests are easily accommodated.