About the Waiãpi

Waiãpi  is the name of a dialect cluster  classified in subgroup 8 of the Tupi-Guarani language family. There are multiple dialects located on both sides of the Brazil-French Guiana border, as shown in the map on page 2. At the time of Gary Olson’s first surveys there were Waiãpi in the areas of :  Oiapoque/Camopi rivers (French Guiana), Cuc River (Amapá), and Amapari (Amapá).

A village is usually composed of a wider family, the chief being the patriarch. The chief is the one primarily responsible for maintaining stability within the village and passing down traditional cultural values, though individual parents sometimes assume this responsibility as well. The chief (or parent) does this through stories and legends. The chief’s influence is felt primarily through consultations, though often times he is the one who determines community activities (such as fishing or hunting expeditions).  If his wisdom and charisma are exceptional, his influence may be felt outside the immediate community as well. Traditional values usually include: (1) control of emotions, especially anger. (2) care of immediate family, and of extended family when you have the wherewithal. This would include supporting them when there is trouble. (3) no stealing or cheating (especially within the immediate family context).