The forests not only provide the essential components of the Asháninka’s existence, but are integral to their vision of the world and are the keys to maintaining their autonomy and way of life. It is at the Asháninka’s request that this project has been developed. Since the internal armed conflict in Peru 1980's-2001 the Asháninka have been actively trying to find a way to conserve and manage their natural resources; to expand their access to information; to shape their communities and preserve their cultural knowledge; and to record and maintain their traditional culture.

The mission is to provide the necessary skills and support for the development of photography within the Ashaninka communities, and to build a network, and the means for the dissemination of the materials both within their societies and abroad.

AIMS

• Document the Ashaninka culture and tradition.
  
  
• Catalog and archive the Ashaninka environment to promote indigenous stewardship for active participation and decision making in the conservation of their lands.
   
  
• Develop the medium of photography as an educational and advocacy tool.
  
  
• Lend support to, and enhance projects already in progress in the Ashaninka communities.
  
  
• Enhance Ashaninka participation and engagement in community and political life on a broader level.  

SPANISH

Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Perú 28th August 2003,
2.8. Los Pueblos indígenas y el caso de los Asháninkas P. 241
http: www.cverdad.org.pe/