Survival International reported on May 15 that Brazilian Indians were angered when Pope Benedict XVI, during his recent visit to Brazil, claimed that their ancestors had been "silently longing" to become Christians when Brazil was colonised five centuries ago. According to the BBC, the Pope also claimed that the imposition of Christianity on the region "had not involved an alienation of the pre-Colombian cultures". Jecinaldo Satere Mawe, from the Amazonian Satere Mawe tribe, said the Pope's comments were "arrogant and disrespectful". The Catholic Church's Indian advocacy group in Brazil called the Pope's statement "wrong and indefensible". Brazil's indigenous population is today less than 7% of what it was in 1500, and of 1000 distinct tribes, only around 220 remain. For more information visit <international.org>.
Pope angers Brazilian Indians
If you like our work, become a supporter
Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.
For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.
Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.