Brazil's Quilombo Communities Fight for Land Rights Amid Climate Talks
Image Source: Internet
In the midst of the United Nations climate conference in Belem, Brazil, quilombo communities are pushing for government recognition of their territories. These communities, comprised of descendants of runaway slaves, have been living in harmony with the Amazon forest for generations. For Zaqueu Belém Araújo, a resident of Itacoa Miri, harvesting acai berries from palm trees is a time-honored tradition. The minimally invasive technique not only ensures the trees' survival but also protects the forest ecosystem. "It's a struggle to keep the forest alive," says Erica Monteiro, a coordinator at Malungu, an association of quilombos in Para state. "We're fighting for our rights and the protection of our environment.
