Environmental NGOs & IPCAs: A Solutions Bundle Dialogue
April 15-18, 2019
Songhees and Esquimalt Nations (Victoria, BC)
Photo by Jeremy Williams
This Dialogue brought together members of First Nations and representatives from Canada’s Environmental NGO community to discuss ways that ENGOs can better support Indigenous-led conservation in Canada. The purpose of this Dialogue was to build on initiatives such as the Indigenous Circle of Experts’ report, We Rise Together, in order to achieve the Pathway to Canada Target 1 in the spirit and practice of reconciliation.
The University of Guelph (Geography), the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Advisory Committee on Climate Action and the Environment, and the IISAAK OLAM Foundation sponsored this Dialogue.
Ceremonial Launch and Partners’ Foundational Dialogue
May 4-5, 2019
Mohawk Nation (Montreal, QC)
Photo by Jeremy Williams
The ceremonial launch of the CRP brought together most of the partners involved in the CRP and took place at the McGill University Thompson House terrace in Montreal. Algonquin Elder Larry McDermott shared prayers and led a smudge (purification ceremony). Partners shared some words about the importance of the work ahead, with Elders and youth opening the circle with ceremony and song.
The following day, partners discussed the shared goals, priorities and values of the partnership. This Dialogue provided an opportunity for partners to get to know one another and to build the foundations of the work that will unfold over the next seven years.
Indigenous-Led Conservation and Carbon Storage Dialogue
May 29-30, 2019
Mississauga's of the Credit Nation (Guelph, ON)
Photo by Guntar Kravis
Indigenous Nations, environmental organizations, legal experts, and researchers explored the opportunities for, and barriers to, Indigenous-led conservation and carbon storage. This Dialogue explored the question: How might Indigenous-led conservation and carbon storage efforts align with more universal conservation and climate objectives, while creating Indigenous community benefits and advancing Indigenous rights?
The Metcalf Foundation sponsored this Dialogue.