Some books inform, others inspire—but a rare few manage to do both while offering a deeply personal perspective on urgent global issues. We Will Be Jaguars by Nemonte Nenquimo and Mitch Anderson is one such book. It’s a powerful memoir that intertwines Nenquimo’s personal journey with the broader fight of the Waorani people to protect their land in the Ecuadorian Amazon. This is not just a story of activism; it’s an account of cultural survival, environmental defense, and the strength required to challenge corporate and political forces.
A Story Rooted in Experience
Nenquimo, an indigenous Waorani leader, provides a firsthand account of growing up in the Amazon, shaped by its landscapes, traditions, and the knowledge passed down through generations. The book details how the arrival of oil companies threatened not just the environment, but the very fabric of Waorani life. The personal stakes are clear—this is not an abstract battle but a deeply human one, where identity, history, and survival are intertwined.
What sets this book apart is its perspective. Nenquimo is not just an observer or activist; she is directly involved in the struggle, and her insights offer a rare depth. She writes about the legal battles to secure indigenous land rights, the negotiations with government officials, and the challenges of balancing tradition with the modern world. The narrative is both urgent and reflective, making the reader understand the weight of each decision and its lasting impact.
The Jaguar as a Symbol of Strength
The title We Will Be Jaguars carries significant meaning. For Nenquimo and her people, the jaguar is more than a symbol—it represents resilience, adaptability, and quiet strength. This motif runs throughout the book, illustrating the qualities required to stand against powerful adversaries. Nenquimo’s fight is not only against external threats but also an internal one, as she navigates the pressures of leadership and the personal toll of activism.
A Compelling and Necessary Read
Environmental books often focus on statistics and policies, but We Will Be Jaguars keeps the human element at the forefront. Nenquimo’s story highlights the consequences of deforestation beyond climate change, showing how it affects real communities and centuries-old ways of life. At the same time, the book does not dwell on despair—it emphasizes action, resilience, and the possibility of change.
This is a book that encourages reflection, not just on the Amazon and indigenous rights, but on broader questions of responsibility and solidarity. It’s a timely and necessary read for anyone interested in environmental justice, activism, or the power of grassroots leadership.
We Will Be Jaguars is more than a memoir—it’s a testament to the power of indigenous leadership in the fight for environmental and cultural preservation. Nenquimo’s story is compelling, her message urgent, and her resilience inspiring. For those looking to understand not just the challenges but also the strength behind movements for change, this book is essential reading.