Fortnite challenges gamers to protect the Amazon by launching map of indigenous lands
‘The Originary Map’ challenges players to protect the forests and indigenous peoples through education and play.
Brazil’s 1988 Federal Constitution ought to entitle indigenous people to clearly defined territorial boundaries, granting them exclusive access and rights to their native land. However, these rights are often not honored, and deforestation, illegal mining and violence against agricultural communities continue to threaten Indigenous life and culture.
In a bid to educate the next generation on the social and environmental challenges facing indigenous communities, Brazilian NGO SOS Amazônia partnered with Leo Burnett Tailor Made to create a unique map in Fortnite that allows young players to participate in a new kind of virtual activism.
Advertisement
Real-world challenges like putting out forest fires, dismantling destructive machinery used by illegal loggers, replanting native trees and cleaning rivers have been replicated in the game.
While developed in collaboration with the Federation of the Huni Kuĩ People of Acre, the project does not represent one specific tribe. Instead, it portrays the shared struggles faced by many indigenous groups in the Amazon. The game also provides information on the forest, sustainability, recognition of native fauna and flora, and the work developed by SOS Amazônia.
Advertisement
Anyone in the world will be able to play the map using map code 6145-4566-3744, which is available only via the SOS Amazônia website. On the bespoke landing page, the NGO showcases its project that aims to rally the next generation in the fight to conserve forests and protect indigenous territories.
It also offers the opportunity for players to support and donate to the Young Communicators initiative, which is active on indigenous lands and focuses on equipping the youth with tools to effectively communicate and raise awareness on issues like climate justice, environmental racism, and territories in the Amazon.
