Daughters of Abya Yala: Native Women Regaining Control

This book compiles testimonies of the struggles, everyday life, and accomplishments of Indian women from Central and South America. Following an introduction to the increasing role of Indian women in international forums and indigenous organizations, the words of individual women describe the problems that affect them and their determination to overcome such difficulties. Testimonies discuss physical and sexual abuse of children; the imposition of machismo on indigenous cultures by European invaders; a maternal and infant health project in the Peruvian Amazon; the need for an indigenous curriculum that allows mothers to be involved in their children's education; precontact roles of indigenous men and women; mothers as teachers of culture and spiritual ways; revival of spiritual traditions; goals of international meetings related to indigenous women's human rights, bilingual and intercultural education, and self-determination; religious freedom; self-directed community development; connection to the land and Pachamama (Mother Earth); pollution and ecological disequilibrium caused by development projects; need for training in leadership and organizational skills; political participation and social action; illiteracy; infant mortality; migration to the cities; seminars and workshops for consciousness raising and networking; marketing traditional crafts; and development of a hostel for indigenous secondary students. The final chapter lists 85 indigenous women's organizations and key contacts around the world. Includes many photographs. (SV)