DOCUMENTARY SCREENINGS

What do indigenous Kichwa people, whose ancestors lived for centuries in the Amazon rainforest, think about its destruction? And what are they doing about the environmental crisis we all face?

"LIFE AND BREATH: Kichwa People Confront Climate Change in the Amazon" is both a tool to educate indigenous communities about climate change and an account of their concerns about the devastating changes in the world’s most important tropical rainforest. Filmed in the Ecuadorian Amazon, the documentary gives voice to Kichwa communities, whose message to their own people and the world is one of urgent action—and hope.

We screen the documentary in remote communities to help increase their knowledge about the science of climate change, generate project ideas, and inspire them to reclaim their ancestral role as environmental stewards.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Through special events and educational projects, we help community leaders, youth groups, and the general public learn more about climate change, conservation and environmental rights.

"I thought (broadcasting on TV) was a big help. More young people watch TV, (and) they haven’t seen Kichwa people talking about environmental issues. Politicians don’t talk about things like the economic issues of deforestation from Kichwa people’s point of view."

–Silverio Mamallacta, panelist