Thousands of Goldminers Invade Yanomami Territory

[Judi Lynn]

by Survival International / July 1st, 2019

Up to 10,000 goldminers have invaded Yanomami lands in northern Brazil, spreading malaria in the region and polluting many of the rivers with mercury.

Although most Yanomami are in contact with non-indigenous society, one uncontacted group is known to live in the area being invaded, and authorities are investigating signs of up to six other uncontacted communities living there.



One of the many illegal gold mining sites in the Yanomami territory. © FUNAI

The massive influx has been blamed by local indigenous leaders for the deaths of four children already. They say the miners are building settlements and airstrips, emboldened by President Bolsonaro’s support for land invaders, and constant attacks on indigenous people.

Some mining camps are just a few miles from uncontacted Yanomami.

The Yanomami association Hutukara estimates the number of miners at up to 10,000. They also report devastation to the fish and game they rely on for their livelihood.

More:
https://dissidentvoice.org/2019/07/thousands-of-goldminers-invade-yanomami-territory/

Environment and energy:
https://www.democraticunderground.com/1127129024

[mahina]

1. Noooooo no no no no no

Fucking trump, his shadow burns the world down.

We can fight him. How can the Yanomami?

My heart is breaking in two.