At the entrance of their community, a group of men armed with nothing more than sticks stand resolutely, their gaze fixed on a solitary police officer clad in riot gear. The authorities are attempting to displace the residents of Tantarcalla, who have lived in this area for centuries, predating colonization. Their ancestral land is now sought after by a single family from a nearby landowner, which claims rightful ownership. This community’s presence in the region long precedes the arrival of the Spanish, residing along the Qhapaq Nan, the sophisticated road network of the Incan Empire. The landowner's lineage traces back to the hacienda established during Spanish colonial rule, which allocated land to settlers of that era. The situation remains complicated, as the judicial system often leans towards the interests of the former hacienda proprietors. Unfortunately, the challenges faced by Tantarcalla are not unique; many other indigenous communities, or ayllus, are grappling with similar struggles. In light of these ongoing issues, Tantarcalla has joined forces with nine other ayllus confronting similar challenges to present their case to the United Nations.

Michael Bednar

mike@michaelbednar.com Canada

Biography

Michael Bednar is a social documentary photographer focused on exploring the intricate interplay between culture and the environment. Driven by a deep passion for storytelling, he engages with his subjects through a lens of authenticity and curiosity, allowing him to connect with diverse cultures and landscapes globally. He has a specific interest in the narratives of Indigenous communities, who maintain their essential bond with the Earth.

Throughout his career, Michael has garnered a multitude of accolades. Most recently, he was honoured with several awards from both the 2024 International Photo Awards and the Tokyo International Foto Awards for his latest project, ‘The Condor & The Bull’.

Over the years, his contributions have facilitated the narration of diverse stories for editorial, corporate, and non-profit clients. Michael is committed to partnering with organizations and brands that reflect his values. His goal is to highlight and foster discussions on significant yet underrepresented issues. Currently, he resides in Cusco, Peru, where he is actively engaged in his ongoing project.

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