Note of support for the Tupinikim and Guarani indigenous peoples in the fight for their land
The Indianist Missionary Council informs the public to reveal its solidarity to the Tupinikim and Guarani indigenous people who occupy, since yesterday (12/12), the harbor Portocel, from where the cellulose of the company Aracruz Celulose is being exported. This action aims to sensitize the Minister of Justice, Márcio Thomaz Bastos, to take a decision in relation to the process of regularization of the land of these indigenous peoples in Espirito Santo.
Cimi is following the situation with apprehension, fearing that a confrontation with fatal consequences could occur. Today (13/12), employees of Aracruz Cellulose and of subcontractors like Plantar, entered the area of the harbor and attacked indigenous peoples. The Brazilian State is not taking steps to prevent an increase of the violence.
In case the conflict runs out of control, the Federal Government will be put responsible, for not having demarcated the land of the Tupinikim and the Guarani. Also responsible is Aracruz Cellulose, who should control its employees.
On 12 September, the National Indian Foundation (Funai) send their position in favor of demarcation of the indigenous land of the Tupinikim and the Guarani, to the Ministry of Justice. In February this year, Minister Márcio Thomaz Bastos compromised to publish the Act of Declaratory of the land as soon as he would receive the position of Funai. To prevent greater conflicts in the region, Minister Márcio Thomaz Bastos must urgently decide on the situation of the indigenous lands in the state of Espirito Santo, fulfilling his commitment, and publish the Act of Declaratory
Brasilia, 13 December 2006
Indianist Missionary Council
