In the context of the International Day of Indigenous Peoples and the Day of Indigenous Women, I want to recognize the transformative role of indigenous women in fighting multidimensional inequality and discrimination that continue to hinder the full exercise of their human rights and overall development. from the country.
Through my contacts with indigenous leaders and communities in different territories, I have seen the potential that empowered women have.
Indigenous women, guardians of wisdom throughout history, have led the development and transmission of ancestral practices and knowledge that keep the culture, spirituality, relationship with the land and, in general, the collective life of indigenous people alive. native populance.
Unfortunately, these contributions are not always recognized and valued.
For this reason, it is necessary to highlight the work of the indigenous women authorities who participate in making key decisions for the community in the exercise of their right to autonomy and self-determination; among them the “texel” of San José Poaquil and the leaders of the Xinca people, who contribute to the conservation of communal lands and intergenerational dialogue.
The midwife grandmothers, who ensure access to physical and spiritual health for women and indigenous peoples. The weavers, who have made visible the importance of recognizing collective intellectual property on their fabrics, creations and clothing. And, in general, all indigenous women human rights defenders who promote processes of building historical memory, seeking justice, defending the territory, promoting political participation and accompanying those who face violence, among others.
This work they do often exposes them to threats, attacks and even criminalization.
Practice has shown that societies improve when States and other actors prioritize the rights of women and, in particular, of indigenous women. Ensuring their participation and leadership positively impacts not only their lives, but also their surroundings.
Despite these contributions by indigenous women, the seriousness and regularity of the violations of their rights continue to be worrying.
To prevent and address discrimination against indigenous women and girls, it is essential that the State include in its actions a comprehensive and intersectional perspective, considering the multitude of factors that combine and place them in the face of different and arbitrary treatment.
The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is also applicable to solve the structural problems that indigenous women face.
Indigenous women must be taken into account in the adoption of any decision on issues that impact their rights.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) will continue to strengthen its capacities and its empowerment as active participants in society, in collaboration with institutional partners, international mechanisms and civil society.
*Representative of Oacnudh