copyright - Lou Dematteis
The South American Rainforests of Ecuador are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth.
The Secoya and Cofan are two tribes of guardians of these ecosystems. Suffering a 98% population reduction in 300 years, the Secoya now number around 800 people - of which a few are 'Shaman' - traditional spiritual masters. This tribe, like many others in the Amazon, are experiencing the effects of the onslaught of mechanized, globally active civilisations such as our own.
This August, 2005 - the tragic murder of Don Esteban Lucitante, an 88 year old Ecuadorian Shaman - has shocked the Secoya and other tribes. The murderers are known and have threatened continued killings. The Elders wish to see Justice - they do not want revenge.
Development pressures are great and the Elders and Shaman are seen as standing in the way of the exploitation of the Rainforest's natural resources.
Support the Indigenous people of Ecuador
"Don Esteban Lucitante will never be forgotten by those who knew him. He would sing all night long, from sunset to sunrise. A master healer, he was always laughing. His joke was to heal, his game was to use his mastery over life to help people, selflessly and unconditionally. He was proper, to say the least. This world will never be the same without him."
A Friend.
Recent New Scientist article:-
'Stopping the Destruction of Amazonia'.
Campaign supported by The Ecologist Magazine
