This poignant arpillera portrays recent repression experienced by the Mapuche people, in Southern Chile, a people who have suffered colonisation for over 500 years. In 2010, thirty-four peasant Mapuche prisoners went on hunger strike in protest against being imprisoned for defending their land. They were seeking a fair trial and contested the state's argument that they were terrorists. They demanded that in their case, the anti -terrorist law should not be applied.
In this arpillera, we are brought inside one of the prisons where the hunger strike took place. Women supporters in their traditional dress surround the 10 men languishing on the floor covered by blankets provided by their relatives and friends. On one of the tables, a sign informs us that these men have been 81 days on hunger strike. The date it started and ended is also given.
Through the window, memories of their native homes are visible, volcanoes, monkey-puzzle trees and flowers; the land and home they defend to death.
The Mapuche flag is placed in a prominent place to reinforce their identity. The artist has added her support by embroidering a banner that reads: "Strength Compañeros."
| 
