the Dâw Project

(This project cannot begin until funds are raised. Click here to see what you can do to help.)

The Dâw live in the extreme North of Brazil, in the Northwestern Amazon region, on the right bank of the Negro River. The county of São Gabriel borders two countries: Columbia and Venezuela. It is made up of 106 individuals that live on the left bank of the Negro River, facing the county seat of São Gabriel da Cachoeira.

For decades the Dâw faced discrimination and were exploited by indigenous peoples of other ethnic groups as well as by non-indigenous inhabitants and "caboclos" (persons of mixed race) of the region. The abuses they suffered led to a decrease in their population, which fell in 1985 to an alarming 63 individuals.

For those who read Portuguese, their story can be downloaded here.

Today, the Dâw have their own territory, produce their own yucca flour, and maintain a school in their own language. Now more than 30 of the Dâw can read and write in their own language as well as in Portuguese. There are three native teachers, a result of literacy projects in their language.

Ten years ago, a translation project on the book of Mark was begun by Valteir Martins. This work was completed, however without the corrections needed for publication. Five years later, missionary Elias Assis continued the translation process in the books of Acts, Thessalonians, and James. The Book of Acts was sent for revisions in 2003.

There is a church with over 40 baptized members and almost all the members of the community attend church.

The missionaries' work consists of translating the Word of God and teaching them to read It in their own language.

Click here to see what you can do to help.