Saturday marks the International Day of Indigenous Women, and it is important to highlight their participation in various areas of Peru's national development.
Among them, their contributions to the fight against poverty, promotion of family farming, defense of the environment, as well as actions to mitigate and adapt to
climate change stand out.
According to the 2017 Census, of the total population that self-identified as part of the indigenous or native population, 51% (more than 3 million) are female citizens.
Indigenous women are bearers and transmitters of cultural heritage, since they teach and disseminate their original languages, in addition to traditional knowledge.
Likewise, they play a key role in the preservation of the environment. Furthermore, they are the main food producers in their communities. Besides, their participation and leadership is essential in strengthening indigenous organizations.
The International Day of Indigenous Women was created to honor Bartolina Sisa, an Aymara indigenous citizen murdered on September 5, 1782.
In Peru, brave Quechua-speaking women such as Micaela Bastidas and Maria Parado de Bellido are remembered on this day, as they played a leading role in our history during the independence process, which was consolidated in the 19th century.
Indigenous women also have a major role in the actions implemented by Peru to face the impacts and risks of climate change.