This panel explored the activism of Indigenous and Afro-descendant leaders across Mexico, Ecuador, and Brazil, focusing on gender, race, human rights, and territorial struggles in the context of colonialism. Emphasizing the pivotal roles of Indigenous and Afro-descendant women, the discussion highlighted their contributions to environmental protection, cultural preservation, and political representation. This intergenerational discussion, gathered Katherine and Maria Celeste illustrating the enduring legacies of slavery impacting Afro-descendant communities in Ecuador and Mexico and Catarina and Watatakalu who shared personal narratives reflecting their evolution into leaders within their Indigenous movements in Brazil, inheriting and advancing the activist legacies of their families and communities.

The panel emphasized that activism for many women is not just a choice but a necessity for survival – a means of preserving cultures, languages, communities, families, and Indigenous knowledge. It also underscored the importance of global solidarities within Afro-indigenous political activism, highlighting the pervasive impact of colonial structures and systems.

By centering Indigenous and Afro-descendant women and their communities, the panel showcased the importance of creating institutional spaces that prioritize Indigenous perspectives. Furthermore, it called for greater support for grassroots initiatives fostering Indigenous representation across various sectors. Overall, the panel served as a call to action to center Indigenous voices and knowledge, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to collective resistance and resilience.