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| Awá elder making an arrow. Brazil 2000
© 2000 Fiona Watson/Survival |
Some weeks ago, Guajajara Indians who live in the territory of
Arariboia in Maranhão state, Brazil, had a chance encounter with a
group of about 20 uncontacted Awá
Indians. The meeting was friendly and happened near a Guajajara
village. The Awá approached the Guajajara and spoke with them and
touched them. According to the Guajajara the Awá suddenly appeared to
take fright at something and swiftly disappeared into the forest.
The Awá of Arariboia have shunned all contact with outsiders, although
the Guajajara have known of their presence for some time. Both tribes
are suffering from the impact of loggers and colonists who have invaded
the area and destroyed tracts of forest.
