Yarigueas

The Yariguies are an indigenous group that inhabits the region along the banks of the Yarigui River in the Andean eastern part of the department of Santander, Colombia. The Yariguies are considered a distinct ethnic group and are recognized as such by the Colombian state for their unique cultural and linguistic identity.

Their language, known as yarigua, is a member of the Chibchan language family and is spoken by approximately 10,000 people in the region. The Yariguies also have a rich cultural heritage, marked by their traditional pottery, weaving, and medicine-making practices.

Historically, the Yariguies have faced challenges in terms of land rights and political representation, as their territories and voices have often been marginalized or ignored by the central Colombian government. However, in 1995, the Colombian Constitutional Congress recognized the Yariguies and other indigenous groups for the first time, granting them the right to self-governance and cultural preservation.

Today, the Yariguies continue to work towards preserving their language, culture, and ancestral lands, often in collaboration with NGOs and community-based organizations that prioritize social and environmental justice. Their struggle for recognition and rights serves as an important reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by indigenous peoples around the world to maintain their identities, territories, and ways of life.

Efforts to document and study the Yariguies' culture and language have contributed significantly to a greater understanding and appreciation of their rich cultural heritage. Studies have highlighted the importance of conservation and preservation of the Yariguies' unique cultural identity and the importance of ensuring their rights to maintain their ancestral lands and cultural practices.