Abya Yala: This Land is Ours

“Abya Yala: This Land is Ours”, 75 minutes, directed by Patrick Vanier, Sycomore films (2006) Abya Yala was the name given to the American continent by the native Kuna nations of Panama and Colombia before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. It means "Land in its Full Maturity". Since 1992, this is also the name that the indigenous nations of America have been using for the continent instead of naming it after European explorer, Amerigo Vespucci. The film “Abya Yala: This Land is Ours” provides a fascinating look at the social and indigenous movements behind Bolivian President Evo Morales - 'Movement Towards Socialism' (MAS) party. The documentary explores the history of the struggle against poverty and oppression in Bolivia and charts the emergence of a new kind of politics and leadership, showing how these forces have won power at the national level. The film features many indigenous Bolivian citizens as well as academic analysts of the Bolivian situation, it brings understanding of the main issues surrounding the accession to power of the first proud indigenous President in Bolivia since the Spanish conquest. Featuring interviews with indigenous leaders and key members of the MAS government: President Evo Morales, Vice-President Alvaro Garcia Linera, and foreign Minister David Choquehuanca as well as activists and leaders from Bolivia’s social movements.