The LA CityBeat gives Q�orianka Kilcher the "3rd Degree" in this week's issue, asking the young star of "The New World" about her efforts to raise awareness of how oil development affects Native people in Peru.

"CityBeat: So, you are of indigenous Peruvian heritage?

Q�orianka Kilcher: Yes, my father is full-blooded Quechua-Huachipaeri. Almost 40 percent of the Peruvian Amazon has been parceled for [oil and gas exploration], and this is affecting my people. This is happening in my backyard. Indigenous peoples have been excluded from the decision-making process, and projects that are exploiting their lands and natural resources, and their culture, are often not being done with their consent.

I saw oil spills, polluted rivers, dead animals, and many sick children. A recent health study found alarming quantities of lead and cadmium and various other heavy metals in the blood of the children in these affected communities. Heavy metals affect the intellectual and physical performance of children."

Get the Story:
3rd Degree: Q�orianka Kilcher (The LA CityBeat 8/24)

Relevant Links:
The New World - http://www.thenewworldmovie.com

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