A Conversation with Chief Afukaká
February 15, 2023
Smathers Library 100
3 PM
We invite you to a public conversation with Chief Afukaká Kuikuro, the Paramount Chief of the Kuikuro Indigenous Nation along the southern fringes of the Brazilian Amazon. Chief Afukaká will discuss his views on collaborations with archaeologists, anthropologists, linguists and other scientists over the past three decades, and the hope of Indigenous peoples that continuing partnerships will help provide solutions for the pressing problems of his community: deforestation, ecosystem degradation, catastrophic drought and wildfires, water pollution, and public health. His views highlight that working together across cultural, social, and political boundaries can help envision brighter futures – best practices – from their point of view, as well as, those promoting social equity and sustainable resource use in the Amazon, in the context of Brazil and the global community. He is joined by his son and grandson, Amuneri and Kalutata, who will also participate in the discussion inspired by Afukaka’s words.
Chief Afukaká’s oration will be in Kuikuro and Portuguese, translated by Kalutata and Amuneri Kuikuro, his son and grandson, and Portuguese, translated by Helena Lima (Museu Goeldi).
The conversation with Chief Afukaká is preceded by a short introduction by UF Anthropology Professor Michael Heckenberger on collaborative projects over 30 years, partnered with Brazilian collaborators from the Museu Nacional (Rio), the Museu Goeldi (Belem) and the Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia (USão Paulo). This deeply engaged research collaboration brings to light many of the past cultural achievements of Indigenous Amazonian peoples, challenging the widely held view of pristine nature and primitive societies, and the resilience of descendant communities. Dr. Helena Lima will provide an overview of new directions in this collaborative project, particularly considering recent changes in Brazil under President Lula.
This event is free and open to the public.
“Indigenous Peoples & Partnerships in the Brazilian Amazon” is sponsored by the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program, the UF Department of Anthropology, and Imagining Climate Change.