Indigenous Peoples

Indigenous voices have been an essential part of URI since its beginning. Cooperation Circles act to protect Indigenous peoples' rights to live and thrive in accordance with their traditions.

Examples of our work in this Action Area:

Comunidad Cosmica CC, in Buenos Aires, Argentina preserves Indigenous cultures' rich oral histories by publishing written stories.
1God CC, in Clayton, Victoria, Australia, leads a movement to return uncovered Aboriginal human remains for dignified burial in accordance with Aboriginal traditions.
Indlondlo Zulu Dancers Cultural and Art Centre, in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, keeps traditional Zulu dances, costume, and culture alive through classes and performances.

The URI delegation delivers prayers and sacred water from around the world as part of the Interfaith Day of Prayer at the Oceti Sakowin Camp on December 4, 2016. URI has a long history of honoring Indigenous traditions, protecting the environment, and creating cultures of peace, justice, and healing for the Earth and all living beings.

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Stories

Thanks to Pachamama

This year 2020, the gratitude to Mama Pacha was for teaching that this pandemic has to leave humanity. We ask for global health and harmony.

Message About Pachamama and COVID

Regarding the ancestral celebration of Pachamama Day in August and the time of confinement due to the pandemic, the new URI Global Councilor, Francisco Morales, also a member of the Cosmic Community CC, shares a powerful message of reflection on care and connection with Mother Earth or Pachamama.

Music for the Soul in Times of Covid

Hosvin Ventura Palax Tuy, a 17-year-old young man, is an active member of the CC Los Descendientes de Guatemaya. This URI member group is dedicated to the preservation of the Mayan culture and its transmission from generation to generation.

Celebration of the Day of Pachamama "Mother Earth"

The ritual takes place every August 1st. This tradition is celebrated by indigenous peoples and includes different rituals ranging from purification to gratitude.

Pachamama Day Celebration

Members of the CC Indigenous Peoples of Argentina performed an honor ritual for the Pachamama. Throughout the month of August in South America, the peoples and nations of the Andes celebrate the awakening of the Pachamama, after its rest during the winter, beginning a new year after the Inti Raymi.