Communities hit first by climate crises have a wealth of experience and insight to share with each other and the world. Those on the front lines are adapting in real time, often with the future of their communities and ways of life at stake.
In April and May of 2021, CJRF held two virtual learning events for partners to share insights from their experience to date. The webinars were part of CJRF’s ongoing efforts to learn and share insights from our portfolio of partners. During these events, five CJRF partners shared their key insights on empowering communities:
Indigenous values and creative expression support next-generation solutions and leadership
Jonella Larson White shared how the Alaska Venture Fund is elevating deeply rooted Indigenous knowledge, wisdom, and problem solving through storytelling, art, and other forms of creative expression. Through convenings and the Aywaa Storyhouse, a platform for Indigenous art and expression of Indigenous voices, communities have a place for dialogue and learning about climate vulnerabilities and justice, while also reclaiming Indigenous stories, languages, and values. Next-generation Indigenous leaders are eager to not only shape the future of their communities, but to mentor the world as they reimagine and strengthen resilient communities centered in Indigenous values.
Self-determination leads to real-life solutions and movement building
Mariana Lopez and Edna Kaptoyo shared how the Pawanka Fund is transforming power relationships in philanthropy by recognizing Indigenous wisdom, governance, and right to self-determination. Pawanka supports Indigenous communities that would not otherwise have access to resources, and selects partners based on cultural due diligence and trust. Partners have full control over grant decisions, empowering Indigenous communities to identify their own solutions for climate justice and resilience. Global intercultural exchange based on Indigenous values facilitates bridge-building among diverse cultures, recognizes Indigenous communities as change agents, and builds momentum for profound social change.
Respecting Indigenous ways decolonizes learning and unlocks locally led solutions
Mali Ole Kaunga shared insights from the work in Kenya undertaken by IMPACT and the Pastoralists Alliance for Resilience and Adaptation in Northern Rangelands (PARAN). An overarching insight is that Indigenous People’s life-long resilience starts with respect for local cultural identity, traditional leadership, and inter-generational connections. Resilience movement building is stronger when it connects with local cultural voice, reflects deeply rooted relationships with the land, and understands that lifelong learning happens best at home, meeting communities where they are. Connecting through music and village learning circles are ways to decolonize spaces and the learning process, leading to adaptations such as improved gender responsiveness and resilience.
Leave no one behind: Solidarity and intersectionality enable change for all
Lavetanalagi Seru shared how the Pacific Island Climate Action Network (PICAN) is advancing climate leadership through intersectionality and solidarity with historically marginalized groups, including Indigenous communities, people with disabilities, and others particularly vulnerable to climate change. To confront underlying systems of oppression and power and to realize a just and resilient future for everyone, all voices need to have a seat at the table. Intersectional organizing leaves no one behind, regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. PICAN provides a platform to share resources, leverage social media and professional networks, strengthen organizational capacity, and advance solutions for everyone.
Progress is real and meaningful, yet change in multiple parts of society is ultimately needed
Aminul Hoque shared how the COAST Foundation is protecting vulnerable coastal communities in Bangladesh through empowerment, networking, and advocacy at the local and national level. COAST’s community education and technical assistance programs have reached millions of people, primarily women, and have facilitated access to the government’s Social Safety Net programs, which are helping to increase income security for fishers and coastal families. One emerging lesson from COAST’s experience is the need to link education and locally led solutions with public policy and meaningful economic opportunity. Another is how, in areas with poor local institutional governance, networking can build momentum for advocacy and coalitions that are more likely to catalyze transformative change.
Solidarity, Community, and Commitment
Those who participated in these learning events felt the depth of commitment and wisdom shared across geographies, cultures, and roles. At the end of both webinars participants answered the question, “When it comes to climate justice and resilience, what inspires you? What gives you hope?” The responses, shown below, reflect a strong sense of solidarity and recognition of the leadership, community, and innovation that is already leading to profound change and next-generation solutions.
