Many development processes are conducted without the full participation of indigenous and tribal communities. The indigenous Amerindians and the tribal Maroons are displaced and dispossessed by this process, and live as an alienated minority. The indigenous and tribal communities must be included in the design, execution, and analysis phases of projects that impact the mental, physical, and social health and well-being of their communities.

SIHF is a small, independent international NGO with volunteer contributors from countries in North America, South America and Europe. It is guided by Indigenous leaders and their communities. All SIHF projects are led by Indigenous partners.