The public panel on First Nations Climate Justice offered many insights into the climate crisis from a First Nations’ perspective: the impacts of climate change on First Nations communities, how First Nations communities are leading the fight for climate justice, how to be a good ally, traditional land and water management, and more.
This written summary is an invitation to further explore the issues raised, and to continue listening to First Nations’ perspectives on the climate crisis. At the end of each section is a selection of resources for additional learning, and phrases highlighted throughout are further defined in the glossary. Emergency Leaders for Climate Action offers its heartfelt thanks to Tishiko King, Mibu Fischer, Bhiamie Williamson and Rae Johnston for their time and for sharing their wisdom.
This panel is led entirely by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander speakers, including:
- Tishiko King, Community Organiser from Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Network and a proud Kulkalaig woman from the Island of Masig, Kulkalgal Tribe of Zenadth Kes
- Bhiamie Williamson, Research Associate and PhD Candidate at the Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research, Australian National University, and Euahlayi man from north-west New South Wales
- Mibu Fischer, Quandamooka saltwater scientist exploring how Traditional Knowledge (science) and management practices can improve modern day fisheries, coastal and conservation management.
- And facilitated by Rae Johnston, multi-award winning journalist, producer, editor and proud Wiradjuri woman from Dharug and Gundungurra Country in Western Sydney.
As Australia prepares for more extreme weather events in the future, we must lift up Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices and invest in First Nations knowledge and leadership, to better protect our land, water, Country, and communities.
Further reading
- How to be a good Indigenous ally | SBS/NITV News
- How to be an ally to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people | Reachout.com
- Ultimate list of things to do to support Aboriginal culture | Creative Spirits
- How to be an Indigenous Ally | Reconciliation NSW
Supporting First Nations climate justice
- Seed | Seed is Australia’s first Indigenous youth climate network. We are building a movement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people for climate justice with the Australian Youth Climate Coalition.
- Our Islands Our Home | Our Islands Our Home is a campaign led by Torres Strait Islanders to protect their island homes.
