The International Seminar Women of Abya Yala: from Xokó Clay to Pataxó-Pankararu (Re)Existence took place from February 12–14, 2025, at the Federal University of Sergipe and in the Xokó Indigenous Village on São Pedro Island (SE). The event included the Women of Abya Yala Exhibition, showcasing Indigenous feather art, Xokó ceramics, bio-jewelry, books, and products from women’s solidarity networks, along with toré performances by Pankararu and Xokó leaders.
The seminar opened with lectures (Cuias de Conversa) featuring Indigenous poet Débora Arruda Aranã, followed by discussions on Xokó knowledge systems, Pankararu-Pataxó diasporas, and women-centered community life, presented by Danny Xokó, Uakyrê Pankararu-Pataxó, and Rita Simone Barbosa, with mediation by Cleonice Pankararu. The day ended with a book signing and cultural soirée.
On February 13, the “Cuia of Hands and Invisible Plants” session included talks by Cleonice Pankararu, Joseane Xokó, Alzenira Oliveira, and Fernanda Rosa, addressing identity, sign language, and pluriversity. The afternoon featured an art workshop and a screening of participatory documentaries filmed in Xokó, Pankararu-Pataxó, and Mangaba Gatherer territories, followed by a debate with local leaders.
The third day included a lecture by quilombola midwife and prayer woman Dona Josefa da Guia, mediated by Mirsa Barreto.
The seminar concluded with a visit to the Xokó Village, where participants joined Indigenous women in a circle of dialogue and songs reflecting the shared paths of the Pankararu, Pataxó, and Xokó peoples toward collective Living Well.
