USD Magazine Fall 2014

Into the Amazon U P C L O S E A N D P E R S O N A L I N T H E R A I N F O R E S T W I T H T H E A C H U A R P E O P L E

The Pastaza and Kawapi Rivers in Ecuador come together near the border of Peru. At their confluence, fresh water pink dolphins rise to the surface and nod their heads, as if to say hello. Nearby, toucans and parrots eat clay that neutralizes the poison in the berries they have just eaten. These animals are a part of the eco- system that is as pure and unadulterated as any in the world. These pristine surroundings are also inhabited by the Achuar people, who put on face paint to protect themselves from harm while moving through the rainforest. They live in harmony and in reverence of the rivers, trees and animals that inhabit their spectacular surroundings. The rainforest is where the Achuar find their food, medicines and rawmaterials to construct anything they need. It is their sacred place of worship. The Achuar live without electricity. They have no automobiles or roads. They hunt with blowguns and curare darts. They believe the dreams they have while consuming hallucinogenic plants all come true. They are self sufficient, needing nothing from the outside world. So, why are they so frightened?

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