The panel will generate conversations regarding the growing participation of previously excluded political actors, such as Indigenous women and youth leaders in the national soul-searching process taking place in Peru, a country exemplifying the greater political currents across the Americas. On November 9, 2020, the impeachment of former president Martín Vizcarra sparked mass protests, and mobilized young Peruvians decrying corruption to demand a new political class and the creation of a new constitution. Indigenous/peasant groups have also long ascertained their rights to a new constitution that addresses territorial and climate issues affecting them. 

The panelists represent current change-making voices in Peru: Tania Pariona Tarqui has participated in different Indigenous organizations and in 2016 she served in Congress as a representative from Ayacucho. Indigenous leaders Ketty Marcelo and Melania Canales will illuminate the longstanding Indigenous political struggles and their vision for a new constitution. The panel will draw on the historical significance of the protests and upcoming presidential election, as well as the impact of neighboring political movements in countries like Chile and Bolivia.  

The event is co-sponsored by The Hemispheric Institute on the Americas, the History Department, and Native American Studies.