Alliances
Non-profit Foundation Corporation – U.S.A.
Sumak Kawsay, meaning “good life” or “full life” in the Kicwhua language, is an ancient philosophy of life of the indigenous peoples of Latin America, particularly the Andean communities. This culture promotes a harmonious relationship between human beings, nature and the universe, based on mutual interconnectedness and interdependence.
In Sumak Kawsay culture, life is seen as a continuous cycle of relationships and exchanges between human beings and the world around them. This approach is based on the realization that everything is interconnected and interdependent, and that individual well-being is closely linked to the well-being of the community and the environment.
The practice of Sumak Kawsay promotes values such as solidarity, sharing, respect for nature, and reciprocity. This culture encourages the preservation of ancestral traditions, care for the land and maintenance of ecological balance.
The people who traditionally practice the Sumak Kawsay culture are the Quechua people, who are widespread in different regions of Latin America, particularly in the Andean regions of Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Colombia and Argentina. The language they speak is commonly known as the Quechua language, and there are several regional variants of this language. One of these variants is Kichwa, which is spoken in different parts of Ecuador and Peru.
Aya Puma, Ecuador. ©Gabriel Andrade
In the modern context, Sumak Kawsay’s concept continues to be a source of inspiration for environmental movements, for defending the rights of indigenous communities, and for promoting sustainable and equitable development. It represents an alternative vision of prosperity and well-being that focuses on respect for life in all its forms.
The Fuoco Sacro group is significantly committed to working together for the preservation of Quechua indigenous culture. Through established relationships in the United States, a foundation has been established that is officially recognized by the U.S. government under the name Sumak Kawsay Foundation – Iglesia del Buen Vivir. This foundation, with the status of a church, is committed to preserving and spreading the ancestral wisdom of the Sumak Kawsay throughout the world and to deepening the understanding of ceremonial practices and the sacred relationship with plants, animals and minerals.
The foundation stands as a beacon of light and guidance for those who wish to immerse themselves in the depths of Quechua culture and Sumak Kawsay principles. With the support and recognition of the U.S. government, the foundation is committed to keeping the spiritual and cultural richness of indigenous communities alive and vibrant, inspiring other communities around the world to follow the path to a more harmonious and sustainable world.
We feel that currently the collaboration between the Fuoco Sacro Association and Sumak Kawsay Foundation is essential to fulfill the vision and mission of our association.
Association that works for the rights of nature, promotes the practice of good living, bio-knowledge and research of ancestral knowledge.
Aya Puma, Ecuador. ©Gabriel Andrade
More information about AyaPuma Samay
The 7 Directions Association works in the areas of personal and community development, protection and transmission of traditional spiritual and healing practices, environmental protection and cross-cultural cooperation.
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