March through eight municipalities of the Southwest Antioquia region to oppose mining exploitation

Are you passionate about environmental activism and protecting the natural beauty of our planet? If so, you’ll be interested to learn about the upcoming march that will traverse eight municipalities in the Suroeste Antioqueño region of Colombia. Activists who are opposed to mining in the area will embark on this journey on Tuesday, June 25th, as part of their ongoing efforts to defend the territory and promote sustainable practices.

The event, titled “Travesía por el suroeste de Antioquia: Un abrazo a la Montaña” (Journey through the Southwest of Antioquia: A hug to the Mountain), is organized by the Cinturón Occidental Ambiental (COA), a coalition of social, peasant, indigenous, and environmental organizations dedicated to protecting the environment. The march will kick off in Caramanta and pass through Valparaíso, Támesis, La Pintada, Fredonia, Andes, Pueblorrico, and culminate in Jericó, where a weekend-long gathering will take place.

During the journey, approximately 120 participants will travel in ‘chivas’ (traditional Colombian buses) and engage in various cultural and community-building activities at each stop. The goal of the IV Abrazo a la Montaña (IV Hug to the Mountain) is to raise awareness about the environmental challenges facing each locality and promote the construction of an Agroecological District in the Suroeste Antioqueño region.

The march is a response to the proposal to turn the Suroeste region into a mining district and the potential development of extractive projects like the Quebradona gold mine by Anglo Gold Ashanti. Activists are advocating for the recognition of rights established by the Constitutional Court and the national development plan under the leadership of Gustavo Petro.

One of the highlights of the weekend in Jericó will be a public hearing where representatives from various government ministries, academic institutions, and activist groups will discuss the creation of an Agroecological District and other related initiatives. This gathering will serve as a platform for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders who share a common goal of preserving the region’s natural resources and cultural heritage.

As you follow the progress of the “Travesía por el Suroeste de Antioquia,” consider the importance of sustainable practices and community engagement in protecting our environment. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.