What's Happening?
The Federation of Indigenous Businesses and Local Communities, known as CIELO, is a national Indigenous chamber of commerce in Mexico that has grown significantly since its founding in 2014. CIELO supports
over 230 businesses from 33 different Indigenous nations across 22 Mexican states. The network is unique in that all member businesses are collectively owned, promoting a democratic economy rooted in community and solidarity. CIELO provides various services, including low-interest loans, design and marketing assistance, and governance rights. A notable project involves supporting community-based solar power generation businesses in Indigenous communities in Quintana Roo, Oaxaca, and Hidalgo, with each expected to generate five megawatts of power.
Why It's Important?
CIELO's initiatives represent a significant shift towards economic empowerment and self-determination for Indigenous communities in Mexico. By fostering community-owned businesses, CIELO helps reclaim cultural and economic sovereignty, providing alternatives to migration and creating local jobs. The focus on renewable energy projects aligns with global sustainability goals and ensures that the benefits of energy generation reach the communities where it is produced. This model of collective ownership and cultural reclamation could serve as a blueprint for similar movements in other regions, potentially influencing Indigenous rights and economic policies worldwide.
What's Next?
CIELO plans to continue expanding its network and supporting diverse Indigenous businesses beyond tourism, including sectors like food production, transportation, and artisanal crafts. The federation aims to further integrate cultural reclamation into its economic projects, promoting the concept of 'buen vivir' or 'good living,' which emphasizes living well within one's cultural and environmental context. As CIELO grows, it may face challenges in scaling its operations and securing funding, but its success could inspire similar initiatives globally, fostering Indigenous economic empowerment and sustainable development.
Beyond the Headlines
CIELO's approach highlights the importance of cultural reclamation in economic development, emphasizing that reclaiming culture, history, and land can empower communities to define their own futures. The concept of 'buen vivir' challenges conventional economic metrics, advocating for a holistic view of well-being that includes environmental and cultural dimensions. This perspective could influence broader discussions on sustainable development and Indigenous rights, encouraging policymakers to consider alternative models of economic growth that prioritize community and ecological health.
