Connecting the Amazon will not be a detached, theoretical depiction but rather a vibrant narrative of the meeting between two groups of human beings—different, yet connected—who share knowledge and emotions while documenting the same events from opposite points of view.
The storytelling opportunities are therefore vast, and our goal is to capture these events with a sense of spontaneity and wonder, fostering dialogue among us Westerners, among the indigenous people, and in the interactions between the two groups.
This will not be a portrayal of impoverished or backward indigenous people. We will steer clear of the sensationalized, pitiful narrative of primitivism marked by poverty and hunger. Instead, the indigenous people will navigate modernity through their evolving worldview—just as we do through ours.
This project goes beyond the production of a simple documentary; it represents a crucial step, directly requested by the indigenous people, to connect with the modern world while simultaneously defending themselves against threats that endanger their survival.
Some might fear that technology could erode indigenous identity, but we believe the opposite. No one should be deprived of the opportunity to learn, and culture belongs to everyone. Indigenous people have always adapted to survive, and only by evolving a culture can remain alive.
The elders of the village are worry that if more natives leave their villages for an easier life in the cities, it will become even harder to resist the encroachment of multinationals, miners, and farmers who seek to exploit the forest’s resources.
Additionally, having access to modern technology offers a unique opportunity for self-representation, education, and a deeper understanding of the world beyond the forest. Furthermore, it could also help them trade their crafts, their primary source of income.
Since the Huni Kuin society exhibits certain patriarchal traits and a deeply rooted cultural tradition of role division, women typically spend their days cooking and caring for children. It is only in the evening that they have time to focus on crafting, which serves as the sole source of income for the entire community. Access to electric lighting would greatly enhance their autonomy and allow them to better manage their time.
INTERNET
This posed a challenge for us, as we are acutely aware of the cultural risks and disruptions that unchecked internet use could bring to their communal way of life. At the same time, we do not believe it is our role as Westerners to dictate what aspects of indigenous culture should be preserved or adapted—an unfortunate pattern from the past. After all, any tool can be used wisely or abused.
SOLAR PANELS
These would provide energy for lighting, powering the internet, and recharging phones and other devices, offering the village much-needed access to sustainable energy.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
The youth of the village, with remarkable earnestness, repeatedly asked us for musical instruments such as guitars, ukuleles, charangos, and percussion instruments. We’ve witnessed children skillfully creating music from the simplest materials—playing empty fuel cans like congas or coaxing beautiful sounds from worn-out guitars with steel strings. However, the lack of proper instruments limits their ability to play and practice, particularly affecting women who are passionate about music but have fewer opportunities due to these shortages.
BOAT
The village leader also requested help in acquiring a larger, sturdier boat with a more powerful motor. This would enable them to travel more efficiently to the city of Tarauacá, transporting more goods and people. For the Huni Kuin, boats are essential, serving as their primary means of transportation between villages, hunting grounds, and fishing areas. A larger boat would represent a significant improvement in their ability to develop economically and enhance their overall well-being.
