The rich traditions of the Amazon come to Cuenca on the International Day of Indigenous Peoples

By Garry Vatcher

There is a lake just outside Twinza, at the edge of the Amazon, Laguna de Ayauch. Its peaceful, mirror-like waters are a breathtaking sight. Everything that stands on its shore is perfectly reflected in the lagoon — the trees, the sky, the stillness.

The people of this small indigenous community are quiet, reserved. They rarely greet visitors or look you in the eye. Perhaps they’ve seen too many reflections about themselves, of strangers, of change.

Laguna de Ayauch

Yet there is a reverence here. A kind of sacred hush. It feels like a call to worship. A time to reflect. A time to be still. A time to see ourselves as we truly are.

I sit by that lake, when I leave the Amazon and I am reminded: sometimes, in the stillness of reflection, I reflect on what I have just experienced and what needs to change.

August 9th is Ecuador’s Independence Day, and it is also The International Day of Indigenous Peoples. Visiting the Amazon, reminds me of the long, difficult struggles of the Indigenous communities — not just for land or rights, but for their dignity, identity, and survival. Independence is something we all value but in the Amazonian communities, their level of independence and autonomy is often dictated by others.

To honor Ecuador’s Independence Day and the International Day of Indigenous Peoples, Foundation Hogar de Esperanza is hosting a truly unique cultural experience — and you’re invited! We’re bringing the Amazon to Cuenca!

Members of the San Ramón community from the Amazon will be joining us to share their rich heritage through storytelling, traditional food and drink, art, and dance. This is a rare opportunity to learn directly from the people who live in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. There will also be displays of artisanal products you can purchase to support this Amazonian community.

Amazonian Dancers

You may be surprised to discover how many of their beliefs echo our own — creation stories, flood legends, healing rituals, and more. Ever wondered how a community handled snake bites before anti-venom? Come and hear their fascinating stories. Yes, we will be doing a snake ceremony… minus the snakes.

Enjoy an authentic culinary experience with dishes prepared the traditional way — wrapped in leaves and cooked over an open fire. Many of the ingredients will be brought in directly from the Amazon, and you’ll get to try chicha, the region’s iconic drink!

A youth group from the community will perform ceremonial dances in traditional dress. These dances tell the stories of their ancestors, celebrate nature, and are a beautiful expression of joy, identity, and resilience.

The Amazon is truly an incredible place — not everyone gets the chance to visit. I’ve walked through its lush jungles, ridden canoes down winding rivers, shared meals with its people, and listened to their stories. We often make the mistake of thinking that the Amazon is just some exotic place where its inhabitants are somehow different from us. There are differences, but in many ways, they are very similar.

There are so many reasons why you shouldn’t miss this event. For years, we’ve been working hand in hand with Amazonian communities — supporting them through programs made possible by generous people like you. Now, we’re offering a rare opportunity for them to share their stories directly with you, and for you to experience the difference your support has made.

One iconic moment will always stay with me.

An Amazonian child

We had visited the small community of Tunkagua several times. The children there are shy, and every visit began the same way — arriving by canoe to an empty shoreline. No one came to greet us. We would climb the steep riverbank and head to the community center, where the children waited quietly. After years of broken promises from outside organizations, trust didn’t come easily.

But last Christmas was different.

As we approached by canoe, I saw something that made me a little emotional. The children were running — running — along the riverbank to greet us. When we arrived, they all stood there waiting at the water’s edge. Our canoe was filled with boots for the children, each pair tagged with the name of a donor. And in that moment, I realized — they weren’t just welcoming us. They were welcoming you. Those boots represented a promise kept. A community that had once watched from a distance now opened their hearts. We had earned their trust.

This upcoming event is your chance to deepen that connection. To hear their voices. To see the reflection of your kindness in their gratitude. We promise you’ll leave both inspired and challenged.

When we gaze into the reflective waters, we see something powerful — we’re not so different after all. We all share the same dreams, hopes, and desires for our families and communities.

This special event is part of a year-long series designed to immerse you in the beauty, culture, and rich traditions of Ecuador. Here’s what’s coming up: September 6 – International Literacy Day, October 4 – International Day of Older Persons, November 1 – Legends from All Saints Day

Each event will open new doors to understanding, connection, and celebration.  To participate, please register in advance by contacting us at: admin@hogaresperanza.org

Pre-registration is required to help us plan and prepare for these meaningful activities.

Join us — walk with us — and be part of something unforgettable.
________________

Garry Vatcher is president and founder of Foundation Hogar de Esperanza. He has been coming to Ecuador since 1987 and permanently moved to Cuenca 11 years ago. The foundation provides emergency assistance to thousands of people each year. With his guidance, the foundation has forged alliances with some of Ecuador’s major institutions including hospitals, the National Police, Amazon communities, universities, and governments. The foundation has received numerous awards and recognition for its work from local and international bodies. For information about all Foundation Hogar de Esperanza projects, go to https://hogaresperanza.org