Indigenous People’s Working Group on Climate Change, Day 2

Most of us are lucky enough to know five generations: our own generation; our parents’ and grandparents’ generations; our children’s and grandchildren’s generations.  Fewer of us directly know our anyone in our great grandparents’ and great grandchildren’s generations.

To keep these generations in mind, the Indigenous People’s Working Group on Climate sets out an empty seat in the circle.

The empty chair ensures seven generations are represented

On day two of the Indigenous Peoples’ Working Group on Climate Change, I was inspired by the presentations from students at Tribal Colleges around the country.  Young people are directly engaging in measurement of change and efforts toward readiness and resiliency.

Wild rice country

Indigenous people maintain a living relationship with what they call the Natural LAW (the Land, Air and Water).  Today, there is no hand-wringing in Indian country.  The emphasis is on action, particularly in STEM education — science, technology, engineering and math — for effective planning and implementation of adaptive programs.

Winging my way back to Boston

 

Mahalo. I return inspired and energized, ready to pitch in.