Indigenous Wisdom

This resource list highlights the vital connection between indigenous peoples and environmental solutions, showcasing various initiatives, organizations, and leaders advocating for sustainable practices rooted in traditional knowledge. It serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals, educators, and policymakers seeking to understand the role of indigenous stewardship in addressing global environmental challenges.

 

We can't wait for Earth Day or Indigenous Peoples' Day. Those marker days are important, but this January, we need to connect the globe, recognize all the efforts already underway, and commit to supporting them.

By exploring these resources, users can gain insights into successful hyper-local initiatives that have the potential for global impact. The list emphasizes the importance of respecting and integrating indigenous perspectives into conservation efforts, ultimately fostering a more inclusive approach to sustainability. This valuable compilation encourages collaboration and dialogue, promoting a deeper appreciation for the wisdom of indigenous communities in protecting our planet.

January 20, 2025 will be both Inauguration Day for the next U.S. president and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed as a federal holiday and National Day of Service to honor Dr. King's legacy and encourage Americans to volunteer in their communities. The National Park Service waives entrance fees to national parks on this day.

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Several well-established organizations work to connect indigenous communities and promote their rights. Here are some of the most prominent ones:

## International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA)

Founded in 1968, IWGIA is one of the largest global human rights organizations dedicated to promoting and defending indigenous peoples' rights[1][3]. It works through a global network of partners, including indigenous peoples' organizations, NGOs, and academic institutions. IWGIA focuses on:

- Protecting collective and individual rights of indigenous peoples
- Promoting the right to self-determination
- Coordinating advocacy efforts at national, regional, and international levels

## Cultural Survival

Established with headquarters in Massachusetts, Cultural Survival has offices in several countries and bases its work on the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples[1]. The organization:

- Engages in advocacy and public education
- Provides platforms for indigenous peoples to claim their lands, cultures, and right to self-determination

## International Network of Mountain Indigenous Peoples (INMIP)

INMIP brings together mountain communities from 11 countries, focusing on revitalizing biocultural heritage for climate-resilient and sustainable food systems[4]. Key aspects of INMIP include:

- Coordinated by the Peruvian indigenous NGO ANDES
- Uses a 'horizontal learning' approach to promote knowledge exchange
- Organizes annual learning exchanges and walking workshops

## Survival International

Founded in 1969, Survival International is exclusively concerned with tribal peoples' rights[1]. The organization:

- Lobbies those in power to protect tribal peoples' human rights
- Works to prevent the annihilation of tribal peoples
- Provides a platform for tribal peoples to speak to the world

## Center for World Indigenous Studies (CWIS)

Established in 1979, CWIS is an independent NGO representing a global community of indigenous studies scholars and activists[1]. The organization:

- Advances the rights of indigenous peoples by applying traditional knowledge
- Drafts laws and regulations related to indigenous rights
- Educates students on indigenous peoples' rights

These organizations have established themselves as key players in connecting indigenous communities worldwide and advocating for their rights and cultural preservation[1][3][4].

Citations:
[1] https://www.humanrightscareers.com/issues/indigenous-human-rights-organizations/
[2] https://www.ethnobiology.net/what-we-do/core-programs/global-coalition-2/mci/
[3] https://www.iwgia.org/en/about.html
[4] https://www.iied.org/international-network-mountain-indigenous-peoples-inmip
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indigenous_rights_organizations
[6] https://mountainresearchinitiative.org/news/the-huaran-declaration-indigenous-peoples-are-the-real-solutions-to-the-climate-and-biodiversity-crises/
[7] https://iwgia.org/en/
[8] https://www.fao.org/mountain-partnership/

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Webcams and recorded videos offer views of natural areas that may be of interest to or connected with indigenous communities. Here are a few examples:

2. Algonquin Park Cam in Whitney, Canada: This webcam provides views of a park that has historical and cultural significance for indigenous peoples of the area[2].

3. Waikoloa Village in Hawaii: indigenous areas with rich Native Hawaiian heritage[3].

4. Saipan Beach Cam in the Northern Mariana Islands: This recording offers insights into traditional practices and views of an area with Chamorro and Carolinian indigenous populations[4].

5. Red Rock Cam in Sedona, Arizona: While not explicitly an indigenous area, Sedona has significant cultural importance to several Native American tribes[5].

7. At Kakadu in Australia, Aboriginal leaders stopped uranium mining and protected a World Heritage Site[7].

9. Devils Tower in Wyoming, Lakota leaders developed a plan to discourage climbing[9]. 

10. Native Hawaiians stopped U.S. Navy bombardment of sacred Kaho‘olawe island after 50 years, and are now restoring it spiritually and ecologically as a cultural refuge[10]. (Recorded video)

11. Mauna Kea, Big Island, Hawaii, also known as Mauna O Wakea, or Mountain of the Sky Father, Mauna Kea, the White Mountain is an important cultural site for Hawaiians, symbolic of the umbilical cord of Hawaiʻi, connecting the land to the heavens, where gods dwell. Mauna Kea is home to many native species, including the Mauna Kea Silversword and the Palila. It is also home to many telescopes that have helped astronomers understand the universe, which has led to conflict between the needs of astronomers and the cultural significance of the mountain[11]. 

12. Oak Flat. Sacred to Western Apache and other Indigenous people, the beautiful lands of Oak Flat,  Arizona are also home to species like ocelots and endangered Arizona hedgehog cacti. It is also a disputed area, due to a multinational mining conglomerate. The US Supreme Court is due to review the court case[12].

13. The Amazon rainforest is often called the lungs of the planet because it absorbs carbon dioxide and produces oxygen. The Sacred Headwaters region in Ecuador and Peru is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. It's home to over 500,000 Indigenous people from more than 20 nationalities[13]. (Interactive recorded video)

14. Mt. Shasta in California. The Winnemem are fighting a U.S. government plan to raise the height of nearby Shasta Dam, a threat to the river, sacred tribal lands, and salmon[14].

15.  The Ukok Plateau, located in the Altai Republic of Russia, is a sacred site where shaman Maria Amanchina actively campaigns to safeguard the land from development, particularly against plans for a gas pipeline that could damage the region's fragile ecosystem and important cultural heritage; this area is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique natural beauty and ancient burial mounds[15]. 

16.  In Papua New Guinea, mine runoff and chemicals are now polluting the sacred Ramu River[16].

17.  In the tar sands region of Alberta, Canada, polluted water results deformed fish and lethal cancers in indigenous communities[17].

18. The Gudangi, along the McArthur River in Australia’s Northern Territory were disrupted when a huge zinc deposit was discovered, but Aboriginal leaders are battling for the river[18].

It's important to note that many indigenous lands are not publicly showcased through webcams, often to protect privacy and sacred sites. However, some indigenous communities are using technology like drones and cameras for land management and protection. For example, the A'i Cofán in Ecuador use drones and trap cameras to monitor their territory in the Amazon rainforest[1].


Citations:
[1] https://amazonfrontlines.org/chronicles/surveillance-tech-helps-indigenous-groups-protect-the-amazon/
[2] https://www.earthcam.com/search/ft_search.php?term=Algonquin+Park+Cam+in+Whitney%252C+Canada
[3] https://youtu.be/2-e9AOc4Co4?si=K_RZOJtcXgVQkhg0 (Recorded video)
[4] https://youtu.be/pOX79qTsKKg?si=EU0NdJpdbDpshK0g (Recorded video)
[5] https://www.earthcam.com/search/ft_search.php?term=sedona
[6] https://www.earthcam.com
[7] https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/webcams/kakadu-national-park_australia_8155759
[8] https://explore.org/livecams
[9] https://www.nps.gov/media/webcam/view.htm?id=353840EE-9D49-67A6-C3D2292B5251E4DD
[10] https://youtu.be/r3WVHbPuCDs?si=XvRU0dqs7GD4LiRK (Recorded video)
[11] https://www.usgs.gov/media/webcams/mk2cam-mauna-loas-summit-and-northeast-rift-zone-mauna-kea
[12] https://youtu.be/Zh68xOn0B_8?si=ls4u3OmjPbxC5xwN (Recorded video)
[13] https://www.conservation.org/stories/virtual-reality/amazon-under-the-canopy (Interactive recorded video)
[14] https://youtu.be/kNP-xTMXJ3M?si=NvQ5Lc_ybSkQCX6f (Recorded video)
[15] https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/768/
[16] https://youtu.be/nsBbcqdtRq0?si=i62FxlzyOaTdpF6z (Recorded video)
[17] https://youtu.be/GRuV6eOqp6Q?si=Cnlyj1Z4CBjrgxYD (Recorded video)
[18] https://youtu.be/nWqn2SgaMcg?si=bw5Y4QH1RUmCQFUR (Recorded video)

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While Native Land Digital (native-land.ca) and the National Museum of the American Indian (americanindian.si.edu) are excellent resources primarily focused on North America, there are similar global resources that provide information about indigenous peoples worldwide:

1. LandMark Global Platform: This interactive map shows lands collectively held and used by Indigenous Peoples and local communities around the world[3].

2. Cultural Survival: An organization that provides global resources and advocacy for indigenous peoples' rights and cultures[4].

3. United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII): Offers a wealth of information, reports, and resources on indigenous peoples globally[5].

4. International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA): Provides global coverage of indigenous issues, including an interactive world map of indigenous peoples[6].

5. Survival International: Offers resources and campaigns focused on tribal peoples worldwide, including maps and information about various indigenous groups[7].

These resources aim to provide comprehensive information about indigenous territories, languages, and cultures on a global scale, similar to the North American-focused sites you mentioned. They often include interactive maps, educational materials, and advocacy information to support indigenous communities worldwide[1].

Citations:
[1] https://native-land.ca
[2] https://americanindian.si.edu
[3] https://www.landmarkmap.org

[4]  https://www.culturalsurvival.org/

[5] https://social.desa.un.org/issues/indigenous-peoples/unpfii

[6] https://iwgia.org/en/

[7] https://survivalinternational.org/

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There are several resources dedicated to mapping and providing information about indigenous peoples in Asia:

1. Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP): This organization works to strengthen solidarity and cooperation among indigenous peoples in Asia. AIPP has 47 member organizations across 14 countries and focuses on human rights, capacity building, environmental issues, and indigenous women's rights[1].

2. LandMark Global Platform: This interactive map includes data on indigenous and community lands worldwide, including Asia. It shows detailed boundaries for thousands of indigenous territories[6].

3. Native Land Digital: While primarily known for its North American coverage, this interactive map also includes information on indigenous territories in parts of Asia[2][4].

4. The International Labour Organization (ILO) study: This comprehensive report provides an overview of national laws and policies regarding indigenous peoples in several Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam[3].

5. World Resources Institute's LandMark platform: This is the first online, interactive global platform to map lands collectively held and used by Indigenous Peoples and communities, including those in Asia[6].

6. South Asia Open Archives (SAOA): This digital resource collection includes materials relevant to the study of South Asia, which may contain information on indigenous peoples in the region[7].

These resources aim to provide comprehensive information about indigenous territories, languages, and cultures in Asia, similar to the global and North American-focused sites. They often include interactive maps, educational materials, and advocacy information to support indigenous communities in the region.

Citations:
[1] https://www.escr-net.org/members/asia-indigenous-peoples-pact-aipp/
[2] https://www.iflscience.com/interactive-map-shows-which-indigenous-lands-you-are-living-on-65721 (Native Land)
[3] https://www.ilo.org/media/426006/download (PDF)
[4] https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/native-land-map-of-indigenous-territories (Native Land)
[5] https://minorityrights.org/resources/forests-and-indigenous-peoples-of-asia/
[6] https://www.wri.org/news/release-first-interactive-global-map-indigenous-and-community-territories-will-help-secure (Landmark)
[7] https://libguides.princeton.edu/IndigenousStudies/Asia
[8] https://www.visualcapitalist.com/cp/mapped-the-worlds-indigenous-peoples/

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The relationship between respect for indigenous peoples and respect for the environment is indeed strong and globally recognized. Here are some key global resources and initiatives that encourage this relationship:

## Inclusive Conservation Initiative (ICI)

Launched by the Global Environment Facility, International Union for Conservation of Nature, and Conservation International, ICI supports indigenous leadership in environmental stewardship across 7.5 million hectares globally[1]. It provides direct financial support to indigenous-led initiatives in Africa, Central and South America, Asia, and the Pacific.

## United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

UNEP emphasizes the importance of indigenous knowledge in addressing environmental crises[2]. They advocate for:

- Protecting and promoting traditional knowledge
- Including indigenous communities in environmental governance
- Recognizing indigenous land claims

## Indigenous Knowledge in Climate Action

The UN Development Programme highlights the crucial role of indigenous knowledge in fighting climate change[3]. Key points include:

- Indigenous practices offering effective climate solutions
- Safeguarding ecosystems that act as carbon sinks
- Integrating indigenous knowledge into climate policy

## Global Safety Net

Scientists have created this blueprint to restore the world's forests and biodiversity[7]. It emphasizes that addressing indigenous land claims and rights could help achieve biodiversity objectives on up to one-third of the required area.

## International Recognition

The World Economic Forum reports that indigenous people protect 80% of Earth's remaining biodiversity[7]. Their lands have up to 25% lower deforestation rates, enhancing biodiversity preservation.

These global initiatives demonstrate the vital role indigenous peoples play in environmental conservation worldwide. They emphasize the importance of respecting and integrating indigenous knowledge and practices into global environmental efforts, recognizing that indigenous stewardship is crucial for addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable resource management on a global scale.

Citations:
[1] https://iucn.org/news/governance-and-rights/202202/new-inclusive-conservation-initiative-prioritizes-indigenous-and-local-community-led-solutions-global-environmental-crises
[2] https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/how-indigenous-knowledge-can-help-prevent-environmental-crises
[3] https://climatepromise.undp.org/news-and-stories/indigenous-knowledge-crucial-fight-against-climate-change-heres-why
[4] https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/tapping-indigenous-knowledge-protect-nature
[5] https://www.iisd.org/articles/deep-dive/indigenous-peoples-defending-environment-all
[6] https://alumni.du.edu/research/showcase/indigenous-knowledge-conservation
[7] https://www.weforum.org/stories/2023/08/indigenous-people-protecting-planet/
[8] https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fee.2435
[9] https://www.wilderness.org/articles/article/9-indigenous-led-conservation-wins-and-other-promising-advancements-2023
[10] https://inclusiveconservationinitiative.org

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Hyper-local initiatives organized for global impact are increasingly recognized as powerful tools for addressing climate change and environmental conservation. These initiatives often leverage Indigenous knowledge and community-led efforts to create scalable solutions. Here are some key examples:

## Guardians Programs

Indigenous Guardians programs are hyper-local initiatives with growing global impact:

- In Canada, the First Nations National Guardians Network has expanded from 30 to over 120 programs in just five years[4].
- Guardians are trained experts who manage protected areas, conduct climate research, monitor species, and support cultural programs[4].
- This model is inspiring similar initiatives worldwide, demonstrating how local stewardship can have far-reaching effects.

## Community-Based Forest Management

Local forest management practices are being recognized and scaled globally:

- Indigenous-managed forests show significantly lower deforestation rates, with one study finding rates two to three times lower in Indigenous-controlled areas of the Amazon[3].
- 36% of the world's "intact forests" are within Indigenous lands, crucial for carbon sequestration[3].
- These local practices are being integrated into larger conservation strategies, recognizing their effectiveness in preserving biodiversity and mitigating climate change.

## Traditional Agricultural Systems

Ancient farming techniques are being revitalized and adapted globally:

- The milpa system of the Indigenous Maya, involving crop rotation and forest regeneration, maintains high biodiversity and soil fertility[1].
- Similar agroforestry systems in West Africa reduce soil erosion and improve crop resilience[1].
- These local practices are being studied and adapted in various regions, offering sustainable alternatives to industrial agriculture.

## Indigenous-Led Conservation Projects

Locally-driven conservation efforts are gaining international support:

- The Canadian government pledged $800 million to support four Indigenous-led, regional-scale conservation initiatives[4].
- Organizations like Amazon Frontlines work directly with Indigenous communities to protect rainforest territories, scaling local efforts to protect millions of acres[2].

## Community-Based Climate Monitoring

Local communities are contributing to global climate data:

- Indigenous peoples often notice early signs of climate change due to their close connection with the environment[1].
- Programs are being developed to integrate this local knowledge with scientific data collection, enhancing our understanding of climate impacts.

These hyper-local initiatives, when organized and supported on a broader scale, demonstrate how Indigenous and community-led efforts can have significant global impacts on conservation and climate change mitigation. By recognizing and amplifying these local solutions, we can create a more effective and inclusive approach to global environmental challenges.

Citations:
[1] https://climatepromise.undp.org/news-and-stories/indigenous-knowledge-crucial-fight-against-climate-change-heres-why
[2] https://www.oneearth.org/projects/pioneering-a-new-model-of-indigenous-led-conservation-in-the-upper-amazon/
[3] https://greenly.earth/en-us/blog/ecology-news/indigenous-communities-and-climate-change
[4] https://resourceslegacyfund.org/news/indigenous-led-conservation-in-the-international-spotlight/
[5] https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/indigenous-peoples-and-nature-they-protect
[6] https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/news/2024/01/list-of-27-indigenous-led-natural-climate-solutions-projects-20232024.html
[7] https://news.mongabay.com/2024/04/in-largest-ever-study-indigenous-and-local-communities-report-the-impacts-of-climate-change/
[8] https://www.conservation.org/projects/earth-observations-for-indigenous-led-land-management

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There are several YouTube videos featuring global leaders discussing the connection between indigenous peoples and environmental solutions:

1. "Indigenous Peoples and Climate Justice" with Dr. Kyle Whyte[1]: This video discusses Indigenous peoples' actions to address climate justice and their role in conservation efforts.

2. "Indigenous Peoples Have Answers to the Climate Crisis" by One Young World[2]: This video highlights how indigenous knowledge and practices contribute to safeguarding 80% of the planet's biodiversity and fighting climate change.

3. "Indigenous Peoples in Global Solutions"[3]: This video features a panel discussion at the Arctic Circle, where indigenous leaders discuss their concerns and perspectives on environmental issues in the Arctic.

These videos showcase global leaders and indigenous representatives speaking about the crucial role of indigenous peoples in addressing environmental challenges and providing sustainable solutions.

Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aSHB6oGcWI
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49WXI0AHRqc
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2PdDiew5eE
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhmstWBgFCY
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDgN2Fs6Zrw
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAnZRFkWwhA
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mudVTLIgww4
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6f0Y_mQP00

See the ever-expanding video list: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdC_tQTKDwBTZl3yZoQlVjtPqso-Tjvgq&si=Q8Lj4F0SzxXaYTm9
.