Hurricane Eta, one of the most powerful storms of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season, brought intense rainfall, flooding, and landslides to parts of Oaxaca, severely impacting rural and Indigenous communities. Entire villages were left vulnerable as families lost homes, crops, and critical infrastructure, while already isolated areas faced worsening food insecurity and limited access to clean water.
The disaster unfolded during the COVID-19 pandemic, compounding existing inequalities and making recovery even more challenging. For many Indigenous communities, the loss of harvests not only disrupted food systems but also threatened cultural practices tied to the land.
In response, Earth Daughters partnered with local leaders to support community-led recovery efforts, providing essential supplies to eight rural Indigenous pueblos across Oaxaca. These resources helped address urgent needs such as food, water, and basic necessities, offering relief during a time of crisis while communities navigated the long and complex process of rebuilding.
Beyond immediate aid, this work highlights the importance of locally rooted, culturally informed responses to climate-related disasters. By supporting Indigenous communities directly, the initiative reinforces resilience, strengthens solidarity, and recognizes the leadership of those most impacted.
This project underscores a broader reality: Indigenous communities are often on the frontlines of climate change, facing disproportionate impacts while receiving limited institutional support. Through collective action and community care, however, they continue to lead powerful efforts toward recovery, adaptation, and long-term resilience.
