Yasuni Referendum: EMA Supports Historic Victory for Biodiversity and the Amazon in Ecuador
EMA, and many of you, stepped up to say 'Yes to Yasuni', the most biologically diverse place on Earth!
When Ecuador's political leaders withdrew their support for protecting Yasuni National Park and flipped to a pro-oil drilling stance, YASUnidos, a civil society movement determined to protect Yasuní from oil exploitation, stayed strong and worked tirelessly.
After more than a decade of legal actions and organizing, they succeeded in placing a binding referendum on the ballot so the people of Ecuador could decide the fate of the 'Cradle of Life'. On August 20th, facing rising violence and fear, the Ecuadorians chose hope by voting overwhelmingly for biodiversity and life over big oil, short-term profits, and corrupt politicians.
While political leaders can shift their positions on a moment's notice and turn from hero to villain in a flash, the consistent and relentless efforts of community organizing along with allies working in solidarity make lasting positive change possible.
EMA's amplification efforts for the finishing kick of the Yasuni Referendum Campaign are a powerful example of how EMA's unique positioning can help support that change.
EMA Board Members sharing the viral video on social
Our ally in Ecuador, Indigenous youth climate activist Helena Gualinga, shared her thoughts on the results and sent a message of gratitude for our support.
"Ecuador has made history today! Through popular will, we have set a planetary precedent, and by voting to keep fossil fuels in the ground in Yasuni, we have sent a message to the world that we are ready to transition away from fossil fuels to protect the Amazon, Indigenous rights, and our climate. I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who joined us in solidarity in this crucial time. Thank you, Artists for Amazonia and Environmental Media Association!
We have shown that we can work together for a better future!"
(Kichwa from Sarayaku), Indigenous Youth Climate Leader, Ecuador
Written by EMA Board Member John Quigley
Cover Photo Credit: John Quigley