From the Classroom to the Frontlines
In the Eastern side of the Indonesian Maluku Islands, a school teacher by day and human rights defender by night, Maritjie Kailey, has emerged as a beacon of hope against land grabbing and gender-based violence. Originating from the quaint town of Dobo, Maritjie’s journey with Peace Brigades International (PBI) began in early 2022, where she embarked on intensive training to learn security theory and protocols, further equipping her for the battles she would face ahead. What motivated this ordinary school teacher to become a beacon of change? Maritjie explains her deep connection with local NGOs, which she believes are an integral link between Indigenous people and global human rights defenders. These organizations help in building awareness about the pressing issues faced in her homeland. Her involvement with PBI, in particular, has aided her in her relentless fight for land rights, strengthening her connections to other organizations and fostering collective action against human rights infringements.
Fighting for Land Rights and against Human Trafficking
Maritjie’s homeland, Aru Island, Maluku, has been a hotbed of controversies. At the core are the rights of local people, whose land is continually threatened by large corporations and the government in an incessant bid for deforestation and establishing sugar plantations. Cases of human trafficking further aggravate the existing distress. In 2013, a significant victory was achieved when a case against land grabbers, intent on seizing 500 hectares of Aru Islands, was won at the national level. However, the fight against the Indonesian navy in 2021, which claimed 689 hectares in the South of Aru Islands for a naval base, remains an uphill battle. The threats to her homeland have evolved, and so too has Maritjie’s approach to addressing them. Harnessing the power of youth, she has encouraged a blend of peaceful demonstrations and art performances to inform Aru Island’s inhabitants about land-grabbing threats. This activism has attracted several NGOs who have joined hands to raise awareness and bring these issues to national and international forums.
Courage Amidst Adversity
The position of a human rights defender is not without its perils. Maritjie acknowledges the dual nature of her role, providing her with a platform to represent many while putting her and her family’s lives at risk. Stalked and surveilled by unknown entities, even her social media accounts haven’t been spared from intrusion. Despite the dangers, she remains undeterred, finding solace in the support of her father and her unwavering commitment to her cause.
PBI’s support has been instrumental in managing these threats. Their engagement with local NGOs, provision of safety training, and collaborative efforts with human rights defenders has made a significant impact. Maritjie speaks of her speaking tour in Europe, managed by PBI, where she presented her cases to the European Parliament and connected with several NGOs. Her family has expressed feelings of being burdened by her choices, especially those members working for the government. She is also worried about the continuation of land grabs, fearing the loss of her beloved village. Additionally, her role as a teacher comes with its challenges, managing negative sentiments from some students and their parents. Yet, amid the adversities, Maritjie remains motivated, drawing inspiration from her father’s words, “When you start something you have to finish it, if you don’t, it means you failed.” To her and the people of Aru Island, the land is their mother. Protecting it is synonymous with preserving their culture, tradition, and wildlife. It’s a battle she is willing to fight for as long as it takes.
Conclusion
Maritjie Kailey, a beacon of hope in East Maluku, serves as a reminder that in the face of adversity, it’s possible to rise above and make a difference. Her story underscores the importance of protecting human rights and the planet, underlining the power of collective action and perseverance. As she continues to champion the rights of the Indigenous peoples of Aru Island, her spirit stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the undying pursuit of justice.
Written by: PBI Volunteer