Associação Socio Cultural e Ambiental Kuntamanã
About ASCAK
[awsh kok]
The Kuntamanã Socio-Cultural and Environmental Association (ASCAK) is a Brazil-based organization working closely with the USA-based Kuntanawa Nation. Together, we focus on protecting the Amazon rainforest, empowering Indigenous communities, and promoting cultural and environmental sustainability.
Founded in 2011, ASCAK represents the Kuntanawa Indigenous People, advocating for their rights while preserving cultural heritage and building partnerships among Pano-speaking Peoples and other riverside communities.
What We Do
Reforestation Efforts: Planting thousands of trees and creating agroforestry systems to restore ecosystems and ensure food security in the Tejo River basin.
Cultural Festivals: Hosting events that connect Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants, fostering alliances and celebrating shared heritage.
Tree Cup Games: Organizing a unique cultural and sports event featuring discussions on environmental issues affecting forest communities.
Cultural & Health Centers: Managing centers in the Kuntamanã village to preserve and promote traditional knowledge and healing practices.
Transform and Illuminate Project: A Call to Action
Launched in 2019 by Haru Kuntanawa, this project is a call to action for environmental protection and Indigenous empowerment.
Our key goals include:
1. Training Sustainability Guardians: Educating local leaders to protect the forest and prevent crises like fires and floods.
2. Mass Reforestation: Planting millions of trees in the Juruá River basin (Tejo and Jordão areas) to restore the Amazon’s ecosystems.