Comunidad Emberra
Unveiling the Enduring Spirit of the Emberá: Guardians of Heritage Across Panama and Colombia. Journey into the heart of the Emberá, an indigenous nation weaving a vibrant tapestry across the landscapes of Panama and Colombia. Organized through ancestral councils, their legacy finds its Panamanian stronghold in the autonomous Comarca of Emberá-Wounaan, established in 1983. More than a community, they are custodians of profound traditions and unique customs, their unwavering spirit dedicated to safeguarding ancestral lands and cultural identity, and to the powerful assertion of their inherent rights.
Panama’s Emberá-Wounaan Comarca: A Legacy of Self-Determination and Vibrant Culture. Within the heart of Panama’s Darién province lies the autonomous Comarca of Emberá-Wounaan, a testament to the enduring spirit and self-governance of this esteemed indigenous community since its establishment in 1983. Spanning the districts of Chepigana and Pinogana, with its capital in Unión Chocó, this territory is the vibrant epicenter of Emberá culture. Their rich tapestry of ancestral traditions, customs, and profound knowledge forms the bedrock of their unique identity and resilience. Their ongoing pursuit centers on the steadfast defense of their ancestral lands, the safeguarding of their cultural heritage, the vital protection of their natural resources, and the unwavering recognition of their inherent autonomy.
Good To Know
History
The Emberá community arrived in Panama from Colombia in the 18th and 19th centuries, seeking new lands and fleeing conflicts. They settled mainly in the Darién province, where they established their communities along the rivers. In 1983, the Emberá-Wounaan Comarca was created, granting them autonomy over their territory, which includes parts of the Chepigana and Pinogana districts. Over the years, they have fought to preserve their culture, language, and territorial rights, maintaining their ancestral traditions in the Panamanian region.
