You are invited to a special screening of the Huni Kuin feature documentary: ESKAWATA KAYAWAI. Deep in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, the Huni Kuin People (or “True People”), return to their wild and joyful ways after generations of colonization and loss. Chief Ninawa Pai da Mata and other members of his community take us into the cacophony of the forest, the beauty of daily life, and what it takes to rediscover the roots of who they are. This powerful return home is an example for the world, proof that it is possible, that we can all make the changes necessary to live in harmony again.
Photos by Lucía Alonso (@lucithehuman) & Gary Van Wyk (@garyvanwykphotography)
Huni Kuin, also know as Kaxinawa, are the largest indigenous group in the state Acre at the Occidental Amazon with 16,000 known members in Brazil, and 2,000 in Peru.
This film takes place in the Novo Futuro village (“New Future”), in the Humaitá River Indigenous Land, state of Acre, Brazil. This village is a four day boat ride from the nearest city, far from the chaos and business of the industrialized world. After “contact” in the early 20th century, the Huni Kuin people have gone through various phases of colonization, narrowly escaping extinction. Some fled to Peru and more remote places in Acre, and were able to keep their languages, their medicines and ways of life completely interwoven with the rainforest. But the groups that stayed in more accessible areas were forced to give themselves up to the tyranny of rubber tappers and missionaries, and all but lost the memory of themselves.
Photos by Lucía Alonso (@lucithehuman)
Today, we are witnessing a powerful cultural renaissance in these communities as they renew their commitments to the truth of who they are, and to pass on their ways. Novo Futuro is one such village. In 20 years they have transformed their lives and gone deeper into the forest to live in nature, by nature, as nature. And their music, their laughter, their regalia and welcoming spirit are a testament to the strength of their heart. Huni Kuin culture is rich beyond belief. We are humbled and grateful to have the opportunity to share this inspiring story of reunion, with its ecstatic soundtrack, legendary characters, and the prayer we all hold for a more beautiful world.
Suggested donation $30.
PRODUCED BY
Bem-te-vi Produções, an independent brazilian nomad film company that celebrates cultures that breathe life, meaning and beauty into ancient wisdom. Directed and shot by Lara Jacoski (@larajacoski) and Patrick Belem (@ptrckbelem) over the course of 4 years living and learning from the Huni Kuin way of life. In friendship and collaboration with the Huni Kuin people, together they tell the story of the cultural revival of their people.
Find out more by visiting the film’s website: www.eskawatafilm.com and instagram page: @eskawatafilm.