Anniversary of Apiwtxa Strengthens Cultural Bonds at the Border
Members of APIWTXA and San Miguel perform with the sonkari, an Asháninka instrument.
From June 21 to 24, the Asháninka and Ashéninka peoples of Peru, along with the Asháninka, Yawanawa, and Apolima Arara of Brazil, gathered at the Amônia River to celebrate the 32nd anniversary of the homologation of the Apiwtxa territory.
This event not only strengthened the ties between these diverse indigenous groups but also highlighted the strengthening of cultural bonds among the Arawak peoples of the border region.
The Apiwtxa anniversary is an important cultural event that symbolizes the preservation and strengthening of the traditions and customs of indigenous communities. The celebration included cultural activities such as traditional games, sacred rituals, and festivities reflecting their heritage.
An Apiwtxa member has his face painted with a natural dye called achiote.
Arawak communities such as Nueva Bella, Dulce Gloria, Nueva Victoria, Sawawo Hito 40, and Alto Tamaya Saweto from Peru participated. Indigenous organizations like AACAPPY (Environmental Association of the Ashéninka Pocharipanko People of Dulce Gloria in the Yurúa District) and ACONADIYSH (Association of Native Communities for the Integral Development of Yurúa Yono Sharakoiai) were also present.
Leaders from different Arawak communities, along with the UAC program director.
During the celebration, participants engaged in traditional activities such as the kamaraampi (ayahuasca) ritual, yaanêtsi (bow and arrow) contest, pyaretsi (traditional masato drink) consumption, dances, and songs with the sonkari (Asháninka instrument). Additionally, there was a night of indigenous cinema projection, which opened a dialogue about the Ashéninka people.
These activities not only celebrated an important anniversary but also strengthened the cultural bonds and identity of indigenous peoples, underscoring the importance of such initiatives in preserving biodiversity and indigenous culture.
Yaanêtsi (bow and arrow) contest in APIWTXA.
The participation of the Peruvian communities was funded by UAC, as part of the "Arawak Indigenous-led Exchange for Land and Culture Care" project developed in partnership with the APIWTXA Association, allowing these communities to strengthen cultural and spiritual ties. Cultural celebrations are common for Apiwtxa, and for the Peruvian communities, dressing up and participating in such events is unique and significant, highlighting the uniqueness of this celebration for them.
This event reaffirms the project's commitment to the conservation and sustainable development of ancestral territories. The strengthening of cultural ties among the Arawak peoples of the border will continue. In the future, more activities and events are expected to continue promoting and celebrating the cultural heritage of the communities.
