Vancouver – Indigenous Peoples have a deeply rooted relationship and interconnectedness with Mother Nature and their leadership is critical in addressing and responding to climate change. However, globally, Indigenous Peoples receive only a small percentage of international funding for climate action.
Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced funding of $12.5 million over 4 years for the Building Climate Resilience from Indigenous Perspectives project. The project is a partnership between the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) and Save the Children Canada, the National Organization of Andean and Amazonian Women of Peru (ONAMIAP) and the Continental Network of Indigenous Women of the Americas, South Region (ECMIA Sur).
The initiative aims to build climate resilience and support Indigenous-led climate action projects in Bolivia, Colombia, Guatemala and Peru, which will be designed and implemented in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada.
These self-determined projects will advance nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation by strengthening climate governance in Indigenous communities, Nations, organizations and local and regional networks, as well as creating space for joint action and knowledge sharing.
Minister Hussen made the announcement on the unceded and traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations alongside Terry Teegee, Regional Chief of the BCAFN, and Lewis Archer, Director of the National Reconciliation Program, Save the Children Canada.
ONAMIAP, a local project partner and member of the ECMIA Sur, participated in the announcement virtually.
“The spirit of ‘nothing about us without us’ is at the heart of Canada’s renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples. In addition to delivering on the government’s commitment to including Indigenous priorities in climate finance, this collaborative initiative continues to help us build Nation-to-Nation, Inuit-Crown, and government-to-government relationships based on respect, partnership and a recognition of rights. First Nations, Inuit and Métis leadership is critical to addressing climate change.” – Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development
“Indigenous Peoples have been guardians of the land and water since time immemorial yet are often on the front lines of climate impacts. Their knowledge is invaluable in addressing the climate crisis. Canada is listening to and standing with Indigenous communities across continents to protect the land and build resilience in communities. This partnership is a testament to the leadership of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in tackling global challenges.” – Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services