Interview with Thiago Yawanawá, author of “Mariri Yawanawá Festival”

Photography: Festival Mariri Yawanawá (2024)

Location: Yawanawá Indigenous Territory, Gregório River

Thiago Yawanawá, from the Yawanawá people in Acre, began his journey in photography as a child, inspired by his father, Tashká, who left the village at a young age, worked with audiovisual media, and later brought that knowledge back to his community. From an early age, Thiago showed curiosity about his father’s equipment, learning through hands-on experience rather than formal courses. Over time, he started documenting moments in his community and sharing these images both in Brazil and abroad. Although he pursues other occupations, photography has always been a constant presence in his life.

The Mariri Yawanawá Festival and the Warrior Tradition

“The photograph Festival Mariri Yawanawá was captured during a very special but also challenging moment. It was taken in 2024, during the Mariri Yawanawá festival, which takes place in the Mutum village. The festival lasts five days and brings together all the villages of the Yawanawá territory to celebrate life, food, dance, and to strengthen family bonds. Each day, traditional games are held. The photo captures a traditional war game in which warriors throw spears at each other. In the past, these spears were sharp, but today they are blunted to prevent injuries. The goal is to dodge and catch the spear in mid-air—a test of reflexes for the village’s warriors.

The men stand face to face, each on one side, launching their spears simultaneously. While they duel, their wives stand behind them, trusting that their warrior will not let them get hurt. Capturing this image was a great challenge because everything happens so quickly. It is one of the most difficult games of the Yawanawá people.”

Photography as a Tool for Resistance and Awareness

“Today, Indigenous peoples in Brazil and around the world use images, photography, and audiovisual media as a tool for resistance—like a spear—to share our stories and communicate our realities to the world. Images help raise awareness about urgent issues such as climate change and biodiversity conservation. They combine art and visual storytelling to evoke emotions and generate empathy, helping to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps.

Photography highlights the transformations occurring in Indigenous territories and showcases the ancestral wisdom of our peoples, reaffirming our role as essential guardians of biodiversity. Beyond that, it has a political impact, mobilizing public action and educating society on the importance of protecting forests and respecting traditional cultures. As a tool of visual activism, photography can provoke deep reflections on the climate crisis.”

The Importance of Indigenous Participation in International Spaces

“In 2024, I participated in the COP16 on biodiversity in Colombia. It was incredible to see Indigenous peoples occupying that space—there were representatives from Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil, Venezuela, and other countries. Everyone was there to discuss how they protect biodiversity in their territories.

COP29 and other climate conferences remain challenging because they often take place in distant and expensive locations. Still, Indigenous peoples continue to mark their presence in these spaces, fighting for their rights and following negotiations. Unfortunately, many governments fail to consult Indigenous communities before making decisions that directly impact them. That is why it is crucial to be present in these forums—not just for Indigenous Brazilians, but for Indigenous peoples worldwide—ensuring that we are aware of what is happening in these negotiations and making our voices heard.”