Amazon Tribe Files Lawsuit Against NYT Over Defamatory Claims

The Marubo tribe seeks $180 million in damages, asserting that the New York Times' coverage has caused them significant harm.

An Indigenous Amazonian tribe, the Marubo, has initiated legal proceedings against the New York Times (NYT), alleging that a recent article regarding their newfound access to high-speed internet led to detrimental labels and defamation. The lawsuit claims that the publication inaccurately characterized the tribe as "unable to handle basic exposure to the internet" and implied that youth members were grappling with porn addiction.

The NYT's initial report, which discussed the impact of the Starlink satellite internet service on the Marubo tribe, mentioned challenges similar to those faced by families in America—specifically issues like excessive screen time, violent gaming, and minors being exposed to adult content. Following the article's release, the tribe contended that their image was further tarnished by sensationalized headlines from outlets like TMZ and Yahoo, which they argue mocked the youth and distorted their cultural identity.

The article prompted a backlash, leading to the lawsuit citing damages of at least $180 million. It further claims that the NYT report incited a "global media storm" that subjected tribe members to humiliation and harm. Community leader Enoque Marubo and activist Flora Dutra, who facilitated Starlink's introduction to the tribe, are named plaintiffs in the case. In response, NYT stated that their reporting provided a balanced view of technology's effects in remote indigenous settings and affirmed their commitment to defending the publication against the claims.