Abya Yala is an Indigenous term used to refer to the American continent from a pre-colonial perspective. The expression originates from the language of the Guna people, who live primarily in present-day Panama and Colombia. It is commonly translated as “land in its full maturity,” “land of vital blood,” or “land of life.”

In recent decades, the term has been widely adopted by Indigenous movements across the continent as an alternative to “America,” a name historically linked to colonization.

Today, “Abya Yala” means more than just a name for a place. It represents the shared history, culture, and unity of Indigenous peoples across the continent. The term is now widely used in academic, political, and cultural contexts, as well as in international Indigenous gatherings.

The term "Abya Yala Atmosphere Seminars" was chosen to represent a bond and a shared commitment among the different remote sensing groups across the continent to keep the flame of scientific development in the region alive.
The seminars will be held at least every three months, scheduled close to the astronomical events that mark the beginning of the seasons—namely, the solstices and the equinoxes.