Pantanal´s Day is created by Conama

On 2005 Pantanal lost its greatest protector: the enviromentalist Francisco Anselmo

On the last march 12th was approved a motion that defines the November 12th as the Pantanal´s Day. The propose was vote by National Enviromental Counsil (Conama) and soon will be approved by Enviromental Minister Marina Silva.

The Federal Government original propose, ask for de Stats Government  of Mato Grosso do Sul, was institute de Pantanal´s Day  on November 14th,  also Paraguai River day. The date of November 12th was defend by Rodrigo Agostinho, from Institute Vidágua, who represents the ambientals groups on national level of Conama. “Understood that was fair to celebrate Pantanal Day on the date of the death of his greatest protector. This is a way to remember Francelmo faith”, explains.

On November 12th of 2005, the enviromentalist Francisco Anselmo Barros, friendly called Francelmo, give up his life for environments questions. He burned his body as a protest during a environment movement against the construction of sugar and alcohol factury on Alto Paraguai  hydrographical basin.

Family: pride and pain

Notified about the Pantanal´s Day, Francelmo´s widow, Iracema Sampaio, shows her confusion of fellings: “I remember with pain that he hurt himself to defend the Pantanal, but I agree the recognized for the memory of Francelmo (…) that is the best day that could find. On 30 years, he loved and gave his life to Pantanal. Many people made as much as him, but he gave his life”.

After consult the Cunsil, the propose will be refer to Environmental Minister and the Republic President, whos may publish a decree confirming the celebrate date.