The inhabitants of the Amazon and its tributaries in Perú are called ribereños, or river people. The ribereños live in villages along the river's shores, which gives them access to the resources of both the river and the forest. While the river provides opportunities for fishing and an ample water supply, the interior can be used for growing crops, hunting, gathering foods and building materials - nearly anything a village might need.

The Huitoto community we will visit has much in common with other ribereños. It sits on the river shore, and its residents mostly speak Spanish. However, the community maintains a distinct cultural identity and customs, and its citizens are bilingual, speaking Huitoto as well as Spanish. In addition, it is located in a protected zone inaccessible to most researchers. Thanks to the Huitoto community's permission and interest, we will be able to spend time there, and learn. And the teaching and learning won't be one way. The community asks that our students and professors make their own contributions, practicing English with their students in exchange for some Huitoto, and sharing information about yuca's diversity elsewhere on the river. Don't worry if you don't speak Spanish. We bring translators, so everyone can participate and ask questions.