The National Tribal and Indigenous Climate Conference held in Anchorage, September 9-12, was an opportunity for learning, sharing and deepening connections in and between Indigenous peoples. Lowlander’s Rising Voices Changing Coasts (NSF) Hub, was present and facilitating a workshop with our RVCC partners in Alaska, on convergence research and knowledge co-creation. The focus was on our vision and how various knowledges can bring timely needed solutions and practices to our impacted communities. It gave voice to our people and their understandings of how climate change will impact coastal regions, and to provide our local communities the information for authentic community driven solutions through community wisdom and knowledges.
Many youth, mainly from Alaska, joined the event as presenters and participants. Isabela Salinas, a tenth grader, was one of the representatives from the Louisiana Hub. What follows are her observations and learnings from her full engagement in the meeting.
“Attending the National Tribal and Indigenous Climate Conference (NTICC) in Anchorage, Alaska, was an experience that I will never forget. It left a major impact on me, both personally and as a member of my tribe. The trip opened my eyes to the many ways Indigenous communities are addressing climate change, an issue that has affected many around the globe. It has also allowed me to deepen my connection with my own culture as I connected with indigenous people there.
As part of the conference, I had the opportunity to meet Indigenous peoples from across the country. One of my favorite tribes to learn about was the Inuit and Yupik tribes. Their resilience and commitment to fight for their lands in the face of climate challenges warmed my heart. They shared stories about their homelands, discussing the similar struggles indigenous communities face. Hearing their stories inspired me to take greater action within my own tribe.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting Portage Glacier, located just outside of Anchorage. Standing in front of the massive, ancient ice, I was struck by how beautiful and otherworldly it was. It was an eye opening reminder of why we were all gathered at the conference, to protect these landscapes so that future generations can enjoy them.
In addition to the formal parts of the conference, I had the chance to experience local Alaskan cuisine, including trying moose soup for the first time. Although I was hesitant at first, I was glad I tried it. It was a delicious and nourishing dish, something I wish I could take back to Louisiana with me.
As much as I enjoyed meeting new people and learning from other tribes, my own cultural background remained at the heart of my stay. Being part of the Atakapa Ishak Chawasha tribe from Grand Bayou Village, I was able to share stories of our traditions and the environmental challenges we face living in coastal Louisiana. I felt proud to represent the youth of my tribe at this national event.
One of the most personal and rewarding parts of the trip was bonding with my aunt Rosina. We shared stories, laughed, and reflected on the importance of family and leadership within our community. Spending time with her was the highlight of my trip. She gave me a sense of clarity about my growing role in the tribe. With the guidance of elders like my aunt, I feel better prepared to contribute to the future of my tribe, especially as we continue to face environmental and cultural challenges.
Overall, the NTICC in Anchorage was an unforgettable experience. It was a time of learning, connection, and growth, both as a young person battling with modern life as well as my indigenous heritage. I left Alaska with a deeper sense of purpose and a dedication to the work ahead. I would like to personally thank my aunt Rosina and Ms. Peterson for inviting me on this trip. It was a wonderful experience that I’m forever grateful for.”
-Isabela Salinas
A full report of the workshop facilitated by RVCC partners is available upon request. Attending from Lowlander were Rosina Phillip, Isabela Salinas and Kristina Peterson.