8,000 Indigenous women gathered in Brasília during the third March of Indigenous Women to strengthen their influence in political spaces and push for public policies that support their communities, both within and beyond traditional territories. The first march took place in 2019, followed by the second in 2021. Out of these mobilizations, ANMIGA was formed, paving the way for a new generation of leaders and activists defending the rights of Indigenous peoples. Currently, there are more than 90 involved in the greater Indigenous movement in Brazil. The impact of this advocacy is visible in recent political milestones, such as the historic elections of Sonia Guajajara, now Minister of Indigenous Peoples, and Célia Xakriabá, a member of the Chamber of Deputies. This third march has been monumental for Indigenous women in politics as it led to the filing of the Combat Violence Against Indigenous Women Bill. Initiated by Célia Xakriabá, it is the first in the Brazilian legislature written in two Indigenous languages—Akwen and Guaraní. For many of the movement’s leaders, protecting the Earth is inseparable from the fight for human rights. As stated in the Manifesto Reflorestarmentes, “It is necessary and urgent to reconnect with Mother Earth, as this is the only way to keep our bodies alive.” The third march emphasized the importance of including the preservation of biodiversity in the struggle for Indigenous rights. Through these historic marches, Indigenous women have highlighted the importance of listening to Indigenous peoples within Brazilian politics while protecting our planet.
