Youth response to climate change: Learning from Indigenous land-based camp at the Northern Saskatchewan Indigenous Communities, Canada

Prarthona Datta; Ranjan Datta; Kevin Lewis; Margot Hurlbert

doi:10.1016/j.explore.2024.02.003

Youth response to climate change: Learning from Indigenous land-based camp at the Northern Saskatchewan Indigenous Communities, Canada

Explore (NY). 2024 Feb 22:S1550-8307(24)00031-4. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2024.02.003. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Prarthona Datta¹, Ranjan Datta², Kevin Lewis³, Margot Hurlbert⁴

Affiliations

¹ Youth, Land-based learner and activist at Calgary High School, AB, Canada.
² Department of Humanities, Canada Research Chair in Community Disaster Research, Indigenous Studies, Mount Royal University, AB, Canada. Electronic address: rdatta@mtroyal.ca.
³ College of Education, University of Saskatchewan, SK, Canada.
⁴ Canada Research Chair in Climate Change, Energy and Sustainability Policy Centre for the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Regina, Canada.

PMID: 38403549
DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2024.02.003

Abstract

This paper represents Youth's involvement in land-based learning in Indigenous culture camps (LLICP) in a powerful and innovative approach to addressing the pressing global issue of climate change. Following Indigenist and relational approaches, we (Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth and educators) explore the critical aspects of this initiative, highlighting its significance and potential impact. Indigenous communities have long held a deep connection with the land and possess traditional knowledge that is invaluable in combating climate change. The LLICP initiative involves organizing cultural camps designed for youth from diverse backgrounds to learn from Indigenous elders and community leaders about the vital relationship between the environment and Indigenous cultures. The LLICP provides a unique opportunity for young people to engage with Indigenous wisdom, traditional practices, and land-based teachings. Through Indigenous elders and knowledge-keepers guidelines, we learned a holistic understanding of sustainable living, biodiversity conservation, and the importance of preserving ecosystems. Our learning helped us, particularly our youths, to become proactive stewards of the environment and advocates for climate action. The LLICP fosters cross-cultural understanding and collaboration, encouraging a sense of unity among youths. The LLICP inspires innovative solutions to climate-related challenges and empowers youth to take leadership roles in their communities, advocating for sustainable policies and practices. The LLICP offers a powerful means of engaging young people in the fight against climate change while respecting and honoring Indigenous knowledge and heritage. It is a promising step towards a more sustainable and resilient future for all.

Keywords: Climate change; Indigenous elders and knowledge-keepers; Indigenous land-based camp; Land-based learning; Youths.