Indigenous Perspectives Program: Amplifying Indigenous Voices in Climate Policy

In the face of the increasingly complex and worsening realities of the changing global climate, following Indigenous leadership and perspectives is more crucial than ever. In partnership with the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources, the Canadian Climate Institute launched an annual program in the fall of 2020, designed to amplify the voices and expertise of Indigenous researchers, Knowledge Holders, and writers within the climate policy landscape across Canada. 

The Indigenous Perspectives Program is rooted in the Climate Institute’s dedication to advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and supporting the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It operates through a case study and mentorship approach that brings attention to Indigenous-led research on climate policy successes, challenges, and lessons learned. The focus is on Indigenous responses to climate impacts, strategies for limiting global warming, and participation in ongoing global energy transitions. Respect for Indigenous autonomy is at the center of the program, where the viewpoints and policy recommendations identified are entirely the individuals, while also honoring multiple ways of traditional understandings to address climate change. 

The program’s mentorship model plays a pivotal role in fostering Indigenous leadership in climate research and policy development. By advancing Indigenous knowledge and following Indigenous teachings and leadership, this partnership program has the potential to reshape climate policy discussions in Canada to make them more respectful and effective, paving the way for meaningful climate action and reconciliation. 

Written by Sabrina Careri, for Ann Dale. 

Photo source: Galen Crout from Unsplash