Empowering Youth and Women to Defend Land Rights and Protect Mother Earth

Movements Grounded in Territorial Experiences

The Women’s Movement and Youth Movement of the Global Alliance of Territorial Communities represent the diverse faces of our communities, showcasing the strength and resilience of indigenous and local community women and youth.

Our movements are a testament to the power of solidarity and the unwavering commitment to protect our lands and cultures.

Together, we stand as guardians of our ancestral rights, advocating for justice and sustainable futures. Inspired by our heritage, we lead with courage and determination to create lasting change for our people and the planet.

By connecting territorial realities to the global sphere, we ensure the voices of women and youth influence international policies. Our unified efforts drive meaningful global action for environmental protection and justice.

Indigenous leaders from member organizations of the Global Alliance of Territorial Communities (GATC) in a group photo against an orange background

Who We Are

red illustration of two female figures, facing each other

We are indigenous and local community women of diverse backgrounds and cultures, united in our struggle to protect our territorial, environmental, and ancestral rights. 

red illustration of a leaf

Representing indigenous and local community women through a movement, part of the Global Alliance of Territorial Communities, we come from 24 countries within diverse ecosystems in the tropical belt.

red illustration of a fist

We come from marginalized, discriminated against, raped, and abused communities. Our history is one of resilience against various forms of violence aimed at our lands and bodies. 

large group of Indigenous women from Brazil in traditional attire protest with signs, advocating for climate action and land protection

Rooted in Ancestral Wisdom, We Stand as Advocates for Justice and Guardians of Our Sacred Lands

Solidarity and deep empathy bind us together, recognizing that the challenges of our sisters are our own.

Indonesian indigenous woman in a headscarf plays a traditional wind instrument alongside another person in an outdoor setting

Our Mission

Empowered by Our Ancestral Knowledge and Traditional Wisdom, We Actively Care For Mother Earth and the Life within It

Our mission is to advocate for just policies and safeguard our territories that guarantee our self-determination while upholding our rights, thereby fostering a society where indigenous and local community women are free to live in a just, equitable, culturally rich society.

Our Vision

We Envision a World Where the Contributions of Indigenous and Local Women Are Valued and Integrated into Conservation Efforts, Leading to the Preservation and Appreciation of Our Mother Earth

Through our collective efforts, ancestral knowledge we strive for a harmonious existence, safeguarding our sacred territories for future generations. Our vision is of a society where women stand as guardians of both cultural heritage and biodiversity, creating a future rich in culture and connection with the world that embraces us.

Purpose

To unite and empower the youth of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities to promote the well-being of communities under the principles of protecting Mother Earth and aligned with the demands of the Global Alliance of Territorial Communities. 

Cheymi Gallardo, João Pankararu and Yaily Castillo, all indigenous youth hold hands on stage during an event

Levels at Which the Movement Operates and the Circles It Impacts through Its Work

three indigenous youth sit together under a shelter, sharing grilled corn while smiling and chatting

Contribute to strengthening the Global Alliance of Territorial Communities

young climate activists raise fists and hold signs advocating for Indigenous rights and climate action at COP28

Influence international forums

group of children hold saplings above their heads in a field, celebrating a tree-planting activity

Support the development of grassroots foundations

Our Principals

two hands arranged in a circle, representing the strength of community and collective action

Trust

The foundation upon which the entire Movement is built.

two hands with movement in the middle, symbolizing understanding between people

Empathy

Recognizing ourselves in others opens the door to respect and solidarity.

two figures shaking hands, symbolizing partnership, trust, and mutual respect

Dialogue

Embracing change and the variety of experiences and knowledge.

a hand holding a megaphone, illustrating amplifying conversation and exchange of ideas

Collectivity

Interconnecting diversity, richness, and identity.

two hands with puzzle pieces, symbolizing mutual support and cooperation between different groups

Collaboration

Through welcoming and including diversity.

Introduction
Women's Movement
Youth Movement

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Rainforest Foundations US is our fiscal sponsor. For any letters and parcels, please direct to:

Rainforest Foundation US
P.O. Box 26908
Brooklyn, NY 11202