Indigenous communities

The Wayúu, Yukpa, and Barí indigenous communities who would have been displaced by the coal mining projects in their lands cautiously interpret the Chavez government's suspension of these projects as a temporary sign of relief. But their struggle against coal mining has lasted a quarter of a century and will not conclude until mining concessions are repealed for good.

Almost all recent major social conflicts in Ecuador, Venezuela, and Bolivia have revolved around access, control, and ownership of natural resources: oil, natural gas, water, and minerals. These conflicts are centered on two separate, and at times conflicting, popular demands.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez has never lacked a sense of theatricality -- that is for sure. In the midst of the proceedings Chávez turned to his ally, Bolivian President Evo Morales, and remarked "You brought me coca, I want the coca that Evo produces there."

Venezuela used to regard its indigenous people contemptuously, but President Hugo Chávez set up a constitution that respects their wishes and their ownership of land. He promised, and has delivered, some improvements in their daily lives and prospects, but the changes are still slow and hesitant.

The Bush administration depicts Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez as a leftist troublemaker who wants to follow in Fidel Castro's footsteps. But some black Americans support the Venezuelan leader, first elected in 1998, for his populist efforts to help his nation's minorities.

Afro-Venezuelan history and culture are now not only honored in Venezuela, thanks to Chavez, but Afro-Americans now have an opportunity to learn about that history and culture. Members of Eleggua are eager to learn ours.

On the one hand, Chavez needs political support from indigenous peoples. But he also seeks important hemispheric integration, which could jeopardize this support.

Sunday's election is about much more than the white elite versus the dark-skinned masses.

After almost three centuries, and a constant struggle for tradition and freedom, the drums continue to ring on for one of Venezuela’s most important Afro-Venezuelan celebrations.

An indigenous delegation to Venezuela, inspired by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's new indigenous health care initiatives, met with Amazonia's indigenous governor and began discussions for new models of village health care in the jungle.