According to the World Bank, land managed by Indigenous peoples is associated with lower rates of deforestation, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and better biodiversity protection. But in many places, Indigenous people have been displaced from their ancestral lands through outright theft, land grabs, violence and war — sacrificing both indigenous livelihoods and the traditional knowledge that has protected their lands for centuries.

Still, across the U.S. we can find examples of land access, stewardship and ownership being restored to Indigenous people – and more efforts being made to involve tribal nations in conservation and climate resilience. 

“Climate change isn't just about protecting the natural world; it’s also about protecting our culture and who we are because we've resisted against so many colonial forces for so long,” says Julia Fay Bernal, director of the Pueblo Action Alliance. 

Guests:

Jessica Hernandez, author, Fresh Banana Leaves

Priscilla Hunter, Board Chairwoman, Intertribal Sinkyone Wilderness Council

Sam Hodder, President and CEO, Save the Redwoods League

Julia Fay Bernal, Director, Pueblo Action Alliance

Contributing Producer: Sam Schramski

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