The text below describes the past aim of the appeal - the focus has now switched to providing funds for the widow of don Esteban...

The immediate requirement is to finance both the process that will bring the murderers of Don Esteban Lucitante to justice and to fund the safe transport of the remaining Shaman (and apprentices) to a neutral safe country - so that they can avoid the ongoing threat of violence.

Immediate funding priority is:- $6,000 USD for legal investigations in Ecuador - and $9,000 USD for the travelling expenses of 3 Secoya Elders and 2 youth out of Ecuador, to Costa Rica. This party will be in away for only 3 months due to family commitments.

Whilst in Costa Rica they will be visiting as guest teachers and

healers at Guaria de Osa Rainforest Ocean Discovery Centre &

Ethnobotanical Gardens on the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica. This initiative is being overseen by the Council for Cultural and Biological Diversity. Any remaining funds will be used to set up trust funds for the remaining elders and their families and especially the wife of Don Esteban Lucitante. Funds will be accounted for and administered by ethical volunteers.

By having funds available to support safe asylum and legal action, the Secoya territory has a much better possibility of long term protection. Because the threat from Development is systematic - concerted action is required NOW.