In the penultimate block of this seminar International Seminar “Towards a new coastal governance in Chile” webinar format, the topic to be discussed focused on “ Ancestral use on the Chilean coast: vision of native peoples “ .
Among the guests and panelists we have on this occasion the Dr. Manuel Tironi, academic from the Institute of Sociology of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and researcher at CIGIDEN, who gave an introduction to this block, recalling the importance of the coast and how Chile is characterized by an extension of it in approximately 6,435 km, although it is a quarry that requires care for its conservation and adequate regulation.
That is why in this instance we are invited to reflect, in addition, the importance of recognizing and remembering that the coasts have been inhabited and managed for thousands of years by indigenous communities that until the day of hpy occupied some of these coastal areas. That is why the recognition of this original occupation would show an appreciation of the ancestral use of coastal spaces, involving various activities of an economic, social, and spiritual nature, which have been developing for many years. In addition, the technical expertise that the original inhabitants have articulated that have allowed the generation of substantive and enriching knowledge, but that unfortunately have not always been validated by a “western” science or that legitimizes this knowledge as true.
The recognition of the uses and knowledge of the coast on sustainability by indigenous peoples makes us wonder how indigenous communities should be included in sustainable coastal management and what are their requirements to carry it out.
The first panelist to present was Ludovic Burns Tuki, Rapa Nui representative, tour operator, surfer and graduate in Tourism Management, as well as executive of the community organization “Te Mau o Te Vaikava” Mesa del Mar, which focuses on the marine conservation of the waters of the province from Easter Island, Rapa Nui . who presented the vision of the Rapanui people about the ancestral use of its coast and how they managed to create an area several years ago that considers the Rapa Nui worldview.
Subsequently, Mr. Adolfo Millabur, Mayor of Tirúa, located in the province of Arauco, Bío-Bío Region , who shared with us an exhibition about the relationship of the Mapuche Lafkenche people with the ocean and their relationship with the state.
The day ended with the exhibition Leticia Caro, representative of the Kawésqar Community, of the Sea Nomad Family Groups and member of the Kawésqar by the Sea communities , who told us about their ancestral territory and how it is in dispute with industrial actors.
We invite you to reflect and get closer to the ancestral visions of the coasts! Check the chapter here!
