Actress and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Indigenous Peoples, Yalitza Aparicio, participated in UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day on May 2nd, 2023.
Acclaimed for her role in the award-winning film ‘Roma’ by Alfonso Cuarón, she appeared at UN Headquarters in New York to passionately advocate for freedom of expression and the rights of marginalized groups.
The event, honouring the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, welcomed more than 1,000 attendees and a panel of 42 distinguished speakers, including human rights activists, press freedom champions, and influential media representatives. Prominent figures included: A.G. Sulzberger, Chairman and Publisher of The New York Times, Agnès Callamard, Secretary-General of Amnesty International, and Almar Latour, Publisher of the Wall Street Journal and CEO of Dow Jones.
During the session, Aparicio emphasized freedom of expression as a tool for promoting diversity and indigenous rights. She stressed that language is not merely a means of communication but also a vital vehicle for transmitting cultural values, knowledge, and heritage.
Aparicio underscored the inseparable link between indigenous identity, cultural preservation, and the right to self-determination.
She urgently called for the protection and revitalization of indigenous languages, which play a fundamental role in preserving ancestral knowledge systems and passing down traditions and stories. According to Aparicio, media outlets have a significant role to play in preserving indigenous languages and promoting diverse cultural expressions.
Panelists expressed concern for diminishing spaces for freedom of expression, negatively impacting the use of indigenous languages.
Aparicio explained that language plays a crucial role in enabling artistic expression, cultural participation, and the fulfillment of other rights,as outlined in the United Nations Declarationon the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. She expressed deep concern for the threats faced by indigenous languages worldwide, including the lack of legal recognition for indigenous community radios and resistance and discrimination from governments and commercial media.
When asked what individuals can do to protect freedom of expression and promote human rights, Aparicio stressed the importance of empowering indigenous peoples and integrating them in all aspects of public life.
She emphasized the need for inclusive cultural and media landscapes that amplify the voices and creativity of all groups in society.
Aparicio called for increased media access for indigenous communities and better representation of their cultures in media content. Additionally, she highlighted the significance of gender equality and urged efforts to bridge the existing gaps in opportunities within the media and creative sectors.
In conclusion, Yalitza Aparicio's participation in the panel shed light on the vital role of freedom of expression in advocating for indigenous rights and embracing diversity.
Her unwavering support of language preservation and the empowerment of indigenous communities paves the way for a future where human rights are protected, voices are heard, and cultural expression is celebrated.
Access the photos and re-watch all the sessions of the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, visit: https://www.unesco.org/en/days/press-freedom