I’ve produced and directed films about all sorts of subjects including aviation, a desert museum, and the inspiring lives of young adults with mental retardation. Some of these films have received recognition such as an Academy Award Nomination and an Emmy.

Then I went to southeast Ecuador to make a documentary called “Dream People of the Amazon,” and my view of the world changed.

It changed because I was in a part of the rain forest that has not changed in a thousand years. My view of the world changed when I was in a thatched roof house in the jungle sipping manioc beer with Achuar friends who patiently explained to me that they could understand the language of plants, and that their dreams were protecting their forest. It changed when I was on my knees on the moist forest floor watching a procession of leaf-cutter ants returning to their nest, each ant with part of a leaf held above it like a huge green sail. It changed when I filmed an indigenous protest march through the streets of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Marching shoulder to shoulder were leaders of the Shuar and Achuar people—former blood enemies. One Shuar leader began to shout, “¡El pueblo Shuar/Achuar unido jamás será vencido!” (Together, the Shuar and Achuar people will never be defeated!)

My view of the world changed when I realized that the Achuar—and many indigenous people all over the world—know something that we in the “developed” world do not. They know how to exist sustainably on the planet that we all call home.

Several years ago, I began to stand up in front of groups and speak of these things. I showed parts of “Dream People of the Amazon” and answered questions. I spoke with people informally after my presentations.

I found that what I am saying resonates with people.

It resonates because it isn’t doom and gloom. I don’t talk about the same old sad story of poor indigenous people losing their old ways to the modern world.

When I talk about the Achuar, my audiences hear about strong, intelligent people utterly devoid of self-pity. To defend their right to live as their ancestors did in an unspoiled part of the greatest rain forest on earth, they have reached out to our world for alliances.

In this unlikely alliance I am finding something fascinating—and useful—to share with you.

Contact:
LMLansburgh@sbcglobal.net
(530) 478-1225

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