Brazilian Indigenous Representatives on their way to Canada

The Embassy of Canada in Brasilia received on 25 March a visit from a group of Karajá indians from Mato Grosso before they left for a two week visit to Canada. The cities visited include Ottawa, Toronto, Oshawa, Saskatoon, Vancouver and Victoria.

Indigenous issues, and cooperation between aboriginal peoples of Canada and Brazil are at the heart of Canada's agenda in Brazil. In the wake of the highly successful visit to Brazil of INAC Sr ADM John Sinclair, the Embassy of Canada received a visit from a group of Karajá indians from Mato Grosso. Through support from CIDA, the group will travel to Canada, March 27- April 10 to meet with government representatives and First Nations organizations. Consistent with Summit of the Americas commitments, the visit will provide an opportunity to explore joint initiatives between Brazilian indigenous communities and Canadian counterparts to exchange experience on economic development, income generation, access to basic health and education services, and improved social conditions.

"We would like to learn from our Canadian indigenous brothers; and find out how they achieved respect from all, without losing their traditional ways." declared chief Joao Wereira.

In an expression of gratitude, the Karaja performed two dances for embassy personnel and National TV, a rare treat for the largely urban Brazilian and Canadian crowd.

The photographs show the elders at the outset of a traditional dance.