DiS at the Métis National Council Youth Climate Summit
The newly launched Métis Nation Climate Change Strategy!
One of the things I most appreciate in life is when someone you don't know opens the door to you into their lives. On the weekend, I had the honour and privilege of attending the Métis National Council's Youth Climate Summit in Ottawa to share some of Diversity in Sustainability's latest resources. What an inspiring experience, learning about the incredible work of the Métis Nation and its youth to fight and adapt to climate change!
I was struck by the stories of how climate change was affecting young Métis people and their relationship with the land, from having family homes and livestock washed away in floods and entire communities decimated by wildfire. Others spoke about the loss of shoreline and the appearance of sinkholes. Others spoke of polluted rivers from industry and damming, and many spoke about the changes that they and the elders in their family had observed in terms of the decrease in harvests of berries and fish, and the disappearance of certain species.
Fireside Chat with the National Youth Council.
Yet, I felt buoyed by all the solutions under way in the Métis nation. At the summit, they launched their new climate strategy, an enormous collaboration between the governing members, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Directors and several external consultants. I learned about the re-introduction of the revered bison in Batoche, SK - a keystone species in the prairie habitat that will help with the regeneration of ecosystems. And also Salay Prayzaan at Métis Crossing in Alberta, a 4.86 MW AC community generation solar project, 100% Métis owned with proceeds supporting the community. I also heard stories of several young Métis women, who took it upon themselves to train as woodland firefighters to protect their communities, others who were so passionate about climate change and advocating for self-determination of the Nation and other Indigenous peoples that they represented them at the COPs at the U.N. (imposter syndrome, begone!) 🤯 I was also floored by the commitment to undertake proactive emergency management among the provinces as well to protect the community. I felt a sense of joy and pride among the group in their efforts for self-determination.
Co-founder of DiS, Heather Mak, having a fangirl moment with environmental activist, comedian and actor Dallas Goldtooth.
Lastly, I want to mention that I am in awe of the care and thought that went into the planning of this summit - from the pragmatic panels and breakout discussions, the incredible writing and artwork shared in the Climate Strategy Art Contest, mental health supports, traditional foods, and there was even Red River jigging (what a treat!), not to mention a pep talk from one of my favourite actors from Reservation Dogs, Dallas Goldtooth! I want to thank Erin Myers, Sydney Castro, Kelsey Scarfone, Jessus Karst, Dane de Souza, Kate Gillis, and the many other folks that made this event a success. Thanks also to President Caron for her inspiring leadership, and to Tessa Soltendieck for making the introduction and connection!