Hamangaí Pataxó
Defending indigenous people’s rights
About
Hamangaí Pataxó grew up in Bahia, Brazil, and belongs to two indigenous groups, the Terena and the Pataxós Hã-hã-hae. At just 9 years old, Hamangaí witnessed violent conflicts in her village between the community and farmers, both claiming the same lands. These tensions have long existed in Brazil due to the lack of demarcated indigenous territories. Since then, Hamangaí has dedicated herself to securing indigenous people’s rights and preserving indigenous ways of life for future generations.
Work
Hamangaí Pataxó defends territories, advances indigenous women's rights, promotes university access, and advocates for climate justice. In 2015 she made her mark by participating in Acampamento Terra Livre, Brazil's largest indigenous mobilization, where she engaged in peaceful protests. Joining youth-led organization Engajamundo in 2016, Hamangaí amplified young voices in decision-making spaces globally, championing Brazilian forests and indigenous people at international forums. Today, she works on reforesting her people's ancestral lands.