10.3 Indigenous environmental activism
8 min read•august 20, 2024
Indigenous environmental activism is rooted in traditional worldviews that emphasize interconnectedness and responsibility to the Earth. It focuses on protecting Indigenous lands, waters, and communities from environmental threats through strategies like direct action, legal challenges, and media campaigns.
Key issues include land rights versus , water protection, biodiversity loss, and . Indigenous activists assert their rights to ancestral territories, demanding a say in land management while advocating for climate justice and inclusion of Indigenous knowledge in environmental strategies.
Indigenous environmental activism
- Indigenous environmental activism focuses on protecting Indigenous lands, waters, and communities from environmental threats and degradation
- Rooted in traditional worldviews that emphasize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the responsibility to care for the Earth
- Utilizes a range of strategies, from direct action and legal challenges to media campaigns and alliances with non-Indigenous allies
Key issues in Indigenous environmental activism
Land rights vs resource extraction
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- Indigenous lands are often targeted for resource extraction projects (mining, logging, oil drilling) without the free, prior and informed consent of Indigenous communities
- Extraction projects can destroy , disrupt traditional livelihoods, and cause pollution and health problems
- Indigenous activists assert their inherent rights to their ancestral territories and demand a say in how their lands are used and managed
Water protection vs pollution
- Many Indigenous communities rely on clean water sources (rivers, lakes, aquifers) for drinking, fishing, and cultural practices
- Industrial activities, such as mining, oil pipelines, and agricultural runoff, can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic ecosystems
- Indigenous water protectors, such as those at Standing Rock, have led high-profile campaigns to stop projects that threaten their water sources
Biodiversity loss in Indigenous territories
- Indigenous lands are home to a disproportionate amount of the world's biodiversity, including many endangered species and unique ecosystems
- Deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and climate change are driving rapid biodiversity loss in many Indigenous territories
- Indigenous environmental activists work to protect biodiversity through land conservation, sustainable resource management, and asserting their rights to govern their territories
Climate change impacts on Indigenous communities
- Indigenous communities are often on the frontlines of climate change, facing impacts such as rising sea levels, melting permafrost, and more frequent extreme weather events
- Climate change can disrupt traditional food systems, force relocation from ancestral lands, and exacerbate existing social and economic inequities
- Indigenous activists advocate for climate justice and the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge in climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies
History of Indigenous environmental movements
Early resistance to colonization and land theft
- Indigenous peoples have resisted colonization and the theft of their lands since the arrival of European settlers in the Americas
- Early examples include the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 against Spanish colonizers in present-day New Mexico and the resistance of the Mapuche people against Spanish and Chilean encroachment on their lands
Rise of Red Power movement in 1960s-70s
- The of the 1960s and 1970s saw a resurgence of Indigenous activism and self-determination efforts
- Environmental issues were a key part of the movement, with activists protesting against strip mining, oil drilling, and the construction of dams and highways on Indigenous lands
- The occupation of Alcatraz Island in 1969-1971 and the in 1978 brought national attention to Indigenous land rights and environmental concerns
Anti-nuclear and anti-mining activism
- In the 1970s and 1980s, Indigenous communities led campaigns against uranium mining and nuclear waste dumping on their lands
- The and other Indigenous groups in the American Southwest fought against the health and environmental impacts of uranium mining, which contaminated water sources and caused high rates of cancer and other illnesses
- In Canada, the and peoples opposed the James Bay hydroelectric project, which flooded vast areas of their traditional hunting and fishing grounds
Prominent Indigenous environmental activists
Winona LaDuke of White Earth Nation
- is an Anishinaabe activist, writer, and two-time Green Party vice presidential candidate
- She is the founder of , an organization that works to raise awareness and support for Indigenous environmental causes
- LaDuke has led campaigns against pipelines, mining, and genetic engineering, and advocates for renewable energy and sustainable development in Indigenous communities
Sarah James of Gwich'in Nation
- Sarah James is a Gwich'in elder and activist from Alaska who has worked to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from oil drilling
- The Gwich'in people rely on the that calves in the refuge, and James has testified before Congress and the United Nations to advocate for the herd's protection
- In 2002, James received the Goldman Environmental Prize for her work to defend the Arctic Refuge and the Gwich'in way of life
Tom Goldtooth of Indigenous Environmental Network
- Tom Goldtooth is a Diné and Dakota activist who serves as the executive director of the (IEN)
- IEN is a leading Indigenous-led environmental justice organization that works to address climate change, energy development, and other environmental issues affecting Indigenous communities
- Goldtooth has been a vocal advocate for Indigenous rights in international climate change negotiations and has worked to build alliances between Indigenous and non-Indigenous environmental groups
Indigenous environmental organizations
Indigenous Environmental Network
- Founded in 1990, IEN is a network of Indigenous peoples, communities, and organizations working to protect the environment and promote sustainable development
- IEN works on a wide range of issues, including climate change, energy development, toxics and environmental health, and sustainable communities
- The organization provides training, resources, and support for Indigenous environmental activists and helps to amplify Indigenous voices in national and international environmental policy discussions
Honor the Earth
- Honor the Earth is an Indigenous-led organization that works to raise awareness and support for Native environmental issues
- Founded by Winona LaDuke and the Indigo Girls in 1993, Honor the Earth provides grants and other resources to Indigenous communities working on renewable energy, sustainable development, and environmental justice issues
- The organization has led campaigns against pipelines, mining, and other extractive industries, and works to promote Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination
Idle No More movement
- is a grassroots Indigenous movement that began in Canada in 2012 in response to legislation that weakened environmental protections and infringed on Indigenous rights
- The movement quickly spread across Canada and beyond, with rallies, protests, and round dances held in solidarity with Indigenous communities fighting against environmental destruction and colonialism
- Idle No More has helped to galvanize a new generation of Indigenous environmental activists and has brought international attention to issues like tar sands development, pipeline construction, and the ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples and lands
Strategies of Indigenous environmental activism
Direct action and civil disobedience
- Indigenous activists have often used direct action tactics, such as blockades, occupations, and protests, to physically stop or delay destructive projects on their lands
- Examples include the in British Columbia, which has blocked pipeline construction through Wet'suwet'en territory, and the Standing Rock protests against the in North Dakota
Legal challenges using treaty rights
- Many Indigenous nations have used their treaty rights and inherent sovereignty to challenge environmental destruction and assert their rights to manage their lands and resources
- For example, the in Washington state successfully used their treaty fishing rights to stop a proposed coal terminal that would have harmed salmon habitat and their way of life
Media campaigns and public awareness
- Indigenous activists have used media campaigns, documentaries, and social media to raise public awareness about environmental issues affecting their communities
- The "Warrior Up" campaign, for example, uses music and art to educate people about the impacts of tar sands development on Indigenous communities in Alberta, Canada
Alliances with non-Indigenous environmentalists
- Indigenous environmental activists have often formed alliances with non-Indigenous environmental groups to build broader support for their campaigns
- For example, the Tsleil-Waututh Nation in British Columbia has worked with Greenpeace and other environmental groups to oppose the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project
Worldviews underlying Indigenous environmentalism
Interconnectedness of land, water, living beings
- Many Indigenous worldviews emphasize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the land, water, and air that sustain them
- This holistic perspective sees humans as part of, rather than separate from, the natural world and emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance and reciprocity in our relationships with the environment
Responsibility to protect for future generations
- Indigenous environmental activism is often motivated by a sense of responsibility to protect the land, water, and living beings for future generations
- This long-term perspective recognizes that the decisions we make today will have impacts that ripple far into the future and that we have an obligation to be good stewards of the Earth for those who come after us
Critique of Western exploitation of nature
- Indigenous environmental activists often critique Western worldviews that see nature as a resource to be exploited for human benefit
- This commodification of the natural world is seen as a root cause of environmental destruction and a violation of Indigenous values of respect, reciprocity, and reverence for the Earth
Successes of Indigenous environmental activism
Stopping or delaying destructive projects
- Indigenous environmental activists have had many successes in stopping or delaying destructive projects on their lands
- Examples include the defeat of the Keystone XL pipeline, the cancellation of the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline in Canada, and the delay of the Resolution Copper mine in Arizona
Asserting Indigenous sovereignty and land rights
- Indigenous environmental activism has also been successful in asserting Indigenous sovereignty and land rights
- For example, the Tsilhqot'in Nation in British Columbia won a landmark Supreme Court case in 2014 that recognized their title to their traditional territory and their right to decide how their lands are used and managed
Revitalizing traditional ecological knowledge
- Indigenous environmental activism has helped to revitalize traditional ecological knowledge and practices that have sustained Indigenous communities for generations
- For example, the Karuk Tribe in California has been working to restore traditional burning practices that promote biodiversity and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires
Ongoing challenges for Indigenous environmentalists
Continued threats from extractive industries
- Despite many successes, Indigenous environmental activists continue to face ongoing threats from extractive industries (mining, oil and gas, logging) that seek to exploit their lands and resources
- These industries often have deep pockets and political influence, making it difficult for Indigenous communities to resist their advances
Limited resources vs well-funded opponents
- Indigenous environmental activists often have limited financial and organizational resources compared to the well-funded corporations and governments they are up against
- This power imbalance can make it difficult for Indigenous communities to sustain long-term campaigns and to have their voices heard in decision-making processes
Balancing development and conservation needs
- Indigenous communities often face difficult choices between economic development opportunities and the need to protect their lands and resources for future generations
- Finding ways to balance these competing needs in a way that is culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable is an ongoing challenge for many Indigenous environmental activists
Key Terms to Review (30)
Alcatraz Island Occupation: The Alcatraz Island Occupation was a significant protest by Native American activists that took place from 1969 to 1971, where a group of Indigenous people seized the island to reclaim it as a symbol of their rights and heritage. This event highlighted the issues faced by Native Americans, including land rights, environmental degradation, and the need for social justice, and became a crucial moment in the broader Indigenous activism movement.
Ceremonial planting: Ceremonial planting refers to the traditional practices involving the planting of seeds or crops that are imbued with spiritual significance and cultural rituals. This practice is often connected to the seasonal cycles, community identity, and environmental stewardship, emphasizing the relationship between Indigenous peoples and their land. By integrating ritualistic elements, ceremonial planting not only serves agricultural purposes but also fosters community cohesion and a deep respect for nature.
Climate change impacts: Climate change impacts refer to the effects that changing climate conditions have on the environment, societies, and economies. These impacts can include increased natural disasters, altered ecosystems, and challenges to food and water security, all of which disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including Indigenous populations. The interplay between these impacts and Indigenous environmental activism highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices and policies that honor traditional ecological knowledge.
Cree: The Cree are one of the largest Indigenous groups in North America, primarily located in Canada and parts of the northern United States. They speak various dialects of the Algonquian language family, showcasing significant linguistic diversity and cultural richness. The Cree have a strong connection to their land and have been actively involved in environmental activism, advocating for the protection of their traditional territories against industrial developments.
Cultural landscapes: Cultural landscapes are the visible, tangible expressions of human activity and interaction with the natural environment, reflecting the values, beliefs, and practices of a community. These landscapes are shaped by cultural and historical influences and serve as a testament to the ways societies engage with their surroundings over time. They are essential for understanding the relationship between people and place, particularly in the context of indigenous practices and environmental stewardship.
Dakota Access Pipeline: The Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) is a 1,172-mile underground oil pipeline that transports crude oil from the Bakken Formation in North Dakota to a terminal in Illinois. It became a focal point for Indigenous environmental activism, particularly among the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, who opposed the pipeline due to concerns over water contamination, land rights, and the protection of sacred sites.
Earth stewardship: Earth stewardship refers to the responsible management and care of the Earth's natural resources, ecosystems, and biodiversity. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of humans and nature, promoting sustainable practices that ensure the health of the planet for future generations. This concept is deeply rooted in Indigenous cultures, which often view land not merely as property but as a sacred entity deserving of protection and respect.
Environmental Racism: Environmental racism refers to the intentional or unintentional policies and practices that result in the disproportionate exposure of marginalized communities, particularly communities of color, to environmental hazards and toxins. It highlights the intersection of social justice and environmental issues, illustrating how systemic inequalities influence access to clean air, water, and safe living conditions. This concept is crucial for understanding how marginalized groups face greater risks from climate change and environmental degradation, which are exacerbated by inadequate political representation and economic disparities.
Honor the earth: To honor the earth means to respect and care for the environment and all living things, recognizing their interconnectedness and the sacredness of nature. This principle emphasizes sustainable practices and stewardship, often rooted in Indigenous beliefs that highlight the importance of maintaining balance with the natural world. It encourages a deep appreciation for land, water, plants, and animals, fostering a sense of responsibility towards protecting these resources for future generations.
Idle No More: Idle No More is a grassroots movement that originated in Canada in late 2012, aimed at raising awareness and advocating for Indigenous rights, particularly concerning environmental issues and the protection of land and water. The movement was sparked by concerns over government policies that threatened Indigenous sovereignty and environmental sustainability, and it has mobilized numerous protests and campaigns across Canada and beyond, emphasizing the interconnectedness of Indigenous identity, culture, and the environment.
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act: The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, enacted in 1975, empowers Native American tribes to manage their own affairs and administer federal programs related to education, health, and social services. This act marked a significant shift in U.S. policy, moving from a model of federal control to one that recognizes the right of tribes to self-govern and make decisions that reflect their unique cultural values and needs.
Indigenous environmental network: An indigenous environmental network refers to a collaborative framework that connects Indigenous peoples and organizations globally, focused on promoting environmental stewardship, sustainability, and the protection of traditional lands. These networks emphasize the importance of Indigenous knowledge and practices in addressing environmental issues, particularly in the context of climate change and ecological degradation. By sharing resources and strategies, these networks empower Indigenous communities to advocate for their rights and engage in activism related to environmental justice.
Inuit: Inuit refers to a group of culturally similar Indigenous peoples inhabiting the Arctic regions of Canada, Greenland, and Alaska. Known for their unique adaptation to the harsh Arctic environment, they have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional hunting and gathering practices as well as modern environmental activism aimed at preserving their land and way of life. Their resilience and deep connection to nature are central to their identity.
Land back: Land back refers to the movement advocating for the return of land to Indigenous peoples who were forcibly removed or dispossessed of their ancestral territories. This concept emphasizes the importance of land as a vital part of Indigenous identity, culture, and stewardship, aiming to restore Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination. It connects with environmental activism by highlighting the necessity for traditional ecological knowledge in addressing contemporary environmental issues.
Land sovereignty: Land sovereignty refers to the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples to govern their traditional territories and manage natural resources according to their own cultural practices and beliefs. This concept emphasizes the significance of self-determination in relation to land ownership, access, and stewardship, highlighting the importance of Indigenous knowledge systems in sustaining ecosystems. It also plays a crucial role in discussions around environmental justice, resource management, and cultural identity.
Longest Walk: The Longest Walk was a significant Indigenous civil rights event that took place in 1978, where Native Americans marched from San Francisco to Washington, D.C. This protest aimed to bring attention to the issues of Indigenous rights, land sovereignty, and environmental concerns faced by Native American communities across the United States. It highlighted the ongoing struggles against federal policies that adversely affected Indigenous people, making it a landmark moment in Indigenous environmental activism and social justice.
Lummi Nation: The Lummi Nation is a federally recognized Native American tribe located in Washington State, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and commitment to preserving its traditions and natural environment. As part of the Coast Salish peoples, the Lummi people have a strong connection to their ancestral lands, which influences their ongoing environmental activism and cultural practices.
National Environmental Policy Act: The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a United States law enacted in 1969 that requires federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before making decisions. NEPA ensures that environmental factors are weighed equally with other factors in the decision-making process, promoting transparency and public involvement. This act has significant implications for Indigenous communities, as it provides a framework for these groups to participate in environmental decision-making that affects their lands and resources.
Navajo Nation: The Navajo Nation is a semi-autonomous Native American territory that spans parts of Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico, serving as the largest reservation in the United States. It has its own government and legal system, which allows it to manage its affairs while preserving its cultural identity and practices.
Porcupine caribou herd: The porcupine caribou herd is a migratory group of caribou that primarily inhabits the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska and the adjacent regions of Canada. This herd is significant for its cultural, ecological, and economic value to Indigenous communities, particularly the Gwich’in people, who depend on the caribou for sustenance and cultural practices.
Red Power Movement: The Red Power Movement was a political and cultural uprising by Native Americans in the 1960s and 1970s that sought to empower Indigenous peoples and promote their rights, identity, and sovereignty. This movement was characterized by activism against oppression, cultural revival, and the assertion of tribal sovereignty, connecting deeply with environmental issues as Indigenous peoples fought for land protection and sustainable practices in their ancestral territories.
Resource extraction: Resource extraction refers to the process of removing natural resources from the environment for economic purposes, such as mining, drilling, and logging. This practice often leads to significant environmental degradation and can disrupt the livelihoods and cultures of Indigenous peoples, sparking movements aimed at environmental protection and sustainable practices.
Sacred sites: Sacred sites are locations considered holy or spiritually significant by Indigenous peoples, often connected to their cultural heritage, traditions, and identity. These places can include mountains, rivers, burial grounds, and ancient structures that hold deep meaning and serve as a connection to ancestors, spiritual practices, and the natural world. The importance of sacred sites transcends just their physical attributes, as they embody the stories, beliefs, and ecological knowledge of the communities that revere them.
Standing Rock Sioux Tribe: The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe is a federally recognized Native American tribe located in North and South Dakota, known for its rich cultural heritage and active involvement in environmental activism. This tribe gained national attention during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, where they fought to protect their water resources and sacred lands from potential environmental damage caused by the pipeline construction.
Sustainable hunting: Sustainable hunting refers to the practice of hunting wildlife in a way that maintains healthy populations, ecosystems, and biodiversity for future generations. This approach is rooted in the principles of conservation and responsible management of natural resources, ensuring that hunting does not lead to the depletion or extinction of species. It emphasizes the importance of traditional ecological knowledge and practices that Indigenous peoples have used for centuries to coexist with their environment.
Tek: Tek refers to traditional ecological knowledge, which encompasses the understanding and practices that Indigenous peoples have developed over generations concerning their local environment. This knowledge is rooted in a deep connection to the land, often integrating spiritual, cultural, and historical aspects of life. Tek plays a crucial role in Indigenous environmental activism, emphasizing sustainable practices and the importance of protecting natural resources for future generations.
Traditional land management: Traditional land management refers to the sustainable practices and stewardship methods employed by Indigenous communities to maintain and utilize their ancestral lands in a way that respects the environment and cultural heritage. This approach often incorporates a deep understanding of local ecosystems, seasonal changes, and cultural practices that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that resources are used wisely and remain available for future generations.
Unist'ot'en camp: The unist'ot'en camp is a Indigenous-led resistance camp located in British Columbia, Canada, established to oppose pipeline construction on unceded Wet'suwet'en territory. This camp serves as a critical site for environmental activism, asserting Indigenous rights and sovereignty while emphasizing the importance of protecting the land and water from industrial exploitation.
Vine Deloria Jr.: Vine Deloria Jr. was a prominent Native American author, activist, and scholar who made significant contributions to the understanding of Indigenous rights, culture, and spirituality. His work emphasizes the importance of animism and the interconnectedness of all beings, highlighting Indigenous perspectives on sacred sites, traditional governance, child-rearing practices, and environmental activism.
Winona LaDuke: Winona LaDuke is a prominent Native American activist, author, and environmentalist known for her work on Indigenous rights, sustainable development, and environmental justice. She has made significant contributions to the protection of sacred sites and landscapes while advocating for the rights of Native communities, especially in addressing climate change and promoting Indigenous environmental activism.