Nemonte Nenquimo releases "We Will Be Jaguars" as a symbol of indigenous resistance.

Nemonte Nenquimo, a prominent Waorani Indigenous leader from the Ecuadorian Amazon, has dedicated her life to defending her territory and culture against the threats posed by large oil companies. Her new book, "We Will Be Jaguars," co-written with her husband Mitch Anderson, not only tells her personal story but also becomes a symbol of resistance and empowerment for Indigenous women around the world. Published in September 2023, this work reflects Nenquimo's tireless struggle to preserve biodiversity and the rights of her people in the Amazon rainforest. From an early age, Nemonte understood that there were two realities: her own, marked by a spiritual connection to nature, and another imposed by colonizers and corporations that see Indigenous territory as a resource to exploit. Her story begins with a profound vision of the jaguar, a sacred being that, according to her, represents the strength and protection of Mother Earth. "When we die, we will continue to live spiritually, we will keep protecting our territory," she asserts, emphasizing the importance of the spiritual connection she maintains with her culture and environment. Throughout her life, Nenquimo has witnessed the devastation caused by oil extraction in the Amazon. Confronting the companies that threaten her home was not an easy path, but her determination led her to lead a historic legal victory that suspended exploitation in her community. This process was not only a triumph for the Waorani but also became a reference point for other Indigenous peoples in their struggle for rights and territories. The publication of the book coincides with the International Day of Indigenous Women, a timely moment to reflect on the crucial role women play in environmental defense. Nenquimo argues that Indigenous women must empower themselves and raise their voices, not only to protect their lands but also to influence the future of the planet. "Women must make decisions and not stay silent," she expresses, highlighting the need for all women, regardless of their background, to find their voice and unite in the fight for a more just and sustainable future. In the book, Nenquimo also addresses the disconnection that modern societies often feel with nature. Speaking about her experience with religious groups, she reveals how the imposition of foreign beliefs can lead to the loss of identity and culture. This process of uprooting affects not only Indigenous peoples but also reflects the widespread disconnection contemporary society faces regarding its natural environment. The book is structured in such a way that it tells the oral history of her people, an approach that respects the Waorani tradition of narrating experiences and sharing knowledge from generation to generation. For Nenquimo, stories are living beings, and their transmission is vital to keeping collective memory and cultural identity alive. This aspect resonates deeply in a world where Indigenous cultures are often marginalized and misunderstood. Regarding the current political situation in Ecuador, Nenquimo expresses her frustration with the slow progress in implementing decisions made by society in referendums on the protection of Yasuní. Her call to action resonates not only in Ecuador but also with all those fighting for environmental justice and human rights. "We must not allow oil companies to come and mock us and humiliate us," she states, highlighting the urgency of her message. Her struggle is not limited to defending her people but expands to a broader vision of social and environmental justice. In this sense, Nenquimo becomes a symbol of hope for many women and men seeking real change. "People from outside must make decisions and take action," she concludes, reminding us that the responsibility to protect the Amazon does not solely rest on Indigenous peoples but is a collective challenge. "We Will Be Jaguars" is not just a book about the resistance of a people; it is an invitation to reflection and action. As the future approaches, Nemonte Nenquimo's voice becomes more relevant than ever, encouraging new generations to fight for a world where nature and humanity coexist in harmony. Her message of solidarity, empowerment, and connection to the land is a call for everyone to act and defend what truly matters: our common home, the planet.