Nemonte Nenquimo launches "We Will Be Jaguars," a song of indigenous resistance.

In a world where the voices of Indigenous women are often silenced, the new book by Nemonte Nenquimo, "We Will Be Jaguars," stands as a beacon of hope and resistance. This work, co-written with her husband, Mitch Anderson, narrates Nenquimo's tireless struggle and that of her Waorani community in Ecuador to defend their territory from oil invasions. The publication is a poignant testimony to her life and her people's commitment to the Amazon, a vital ecosystem facing the constant threat of climate change. From her earliest childhood memories, Nenquimo has lived between two worlds: that of her home in the jungle, where nature and family life intertwine, and that of corporations that view the Amazon as merely a resource to exploit. This duality has shaped her identity and her fight. At six years old, she understood that her home, her "oko," was at risk due to the ambitions of large oil companies that arrived with promises of development and progress, but which actually brought destruction and disease. "We Will Be Jaguars" not only documents Nenquimo's personal story but also serves as a call to action for all women, especially Indigenous women. In a recent interview, Nenquimo emphasized the importance of women in the Amazon and around the world empowering themselves, making decisions, and not staying silent. This message resonates deeply in a context where women have historically been marginalized in environmental activism and decision-making. The title of the book reflects the spiritual connection the Waorani have with the jaguar, a symbol of strength and protection of nature. "Our God who gives us vision is the jaguar," Nenquimo explains. This powerful image underscores her belief that the fight for land and biodiversity is an extension of her very existence. With every word of her book, she seeks to convey that resistance is a sacred act that transcends death, a promise that the struggle for the Earth will continue, even beyond her life. Throughout her journey, Nenquimo has achieved significant victories, including the suspension of oil exploitation in her community through legal processes. However, the fight continues. Recently, Indigenous communities and Ecuadorian citizens overwhelmingly voted "Yes to Yasuní," a referendum aimed at expelling oil companies from a vital area of the Amazon. Despite this clear expression of popular will, implementation has been lacking, and President Daniel Noboa has not fulfilled his promises. Nenquimo criticizes the disconnection many have with nature and the lack of respect for Indigenous cultures. Her book, and her voice as a leader, seeks to bridge this gap. The Waorani fighter emphasizes that it is not enough to listen; real action is needed. The participation of everyone is vital, not just Indigenous peoples, but society as a whole, in defending the Amazon and combating climate change. The construction of the book was a deep and collaborative process. Nenquimo fondly recalls how her husband, Mitch, immersed himself in her world, living and breathing Waorani culture. Together, they narrated a story that has been told many times by outsiders, but which is now presented from the perspective of those who truly live it. The work is a testament to the importance of oral memory and how each story weaves a thread in the collective tapestry of her people. In this context, the role of women in environmental activism is crucial. Nenquimo invites all women, not just Indigenous ones, to rise up and raise their voices. The lack of representation in decision-making means that the perspectives and needs of these communities are often ignored. Therefore, her message is clear: women must unite, not only among themselves but also with other groups to create a united front in defense of nature and human rights. The future of the Amazon and humanity depends on collective action. Nenquimo reminds us that it is not just about protecting a territory; it is about defending life itself. Each of us has a role to play and a responsibility to the Earth. In the end, the true salvation of the Amazon and its peoples will not come from outside but from the collective will of those of us who inhabit it, recognizing our interconnection with the planet. Ultimately, "We Will Be Jaguars" is more than a book; it is a call to resistance and an invitation to action. It serves as a reminder that while the path to environmental justice is fraught with obstacles, the hope and determination of leaders like Nemonte Nenquimo are the spark needed to ignite change. Her story is a beacon that shines in the darkness, guiding communities toward a future where all can coexist in harmony with nature.