Emberá

The Emberá are an indigenous people of Colombia and Panama, also known as Emberá or Emberá-Wounaan when referring to a larger, connected group. They inhabit rainforest regions along rivers in western Colombia and eastern Panama, including areas near Darién and along the Atrato and San Juan basins. They form one of the larger indigenous groups in the region.

Language and identity. They speak the Emberá language, part of the Chocóan language family, as well as Wounaan for some groups; many are bilingual in Spanish. The Emberá-Wounaan languages have several dialects and are recognized in national contexts.

Economy and art. Traditionally, Emberá subsistence includes farming (manioc, maize, plantains), fishing, and hunting; crafts are central to the economy, including basketry, woodcarving, beadwork, and textiles. In Panama especially, many villages operate small-scale ecotourism and cultural tours for visitors.

Social and cultural life. Villages are typically organized around a local leader or chief, with councils of elders and family units forming the basic social structure. Ceremonial life includes dances, songs, and body painting for special occasions and rites of passage; attire commonly features woven clothing and ornaments.

History and modern context. Since the arrival of Europeans, the Emberá have experienced colonization, missionization, and displacement, leading to changes in land use and social organization. In recent decades, efforts to preserve language and culture have included language programs and cultural tourism, as well as interactions with national governments for land rights and recognition.