Iwi Chairs Forum meets with US Interior Secretary to discuss climate change
Maori climate leaders have met with the US Secretary for the Interior Debra Haaland to discuss the impacts of climate change on indigenous communities. The meeting between Haaland, who is of Laguna Pueblo heritage, and members of the National Iwi Chairs Forum took place on Wednesday and focused on the need for greater climate action from the US government. The Forums climate spokesman Mike Smith said it was important to protect indigenous knowledge and traditional practices while addressing climate change. "We are pleased to have had the opportunity to meet with Secretary Haaland and discuss our shared concerns about climate change," he said. READ MORE: * Census 2023 will do better, especially for Maori, Stats NZ says * 'It's our collective responsibility' Pacific researchers urge world leaders to help the islands fight climate change * Rangatahi Maori to share their views on world issues at Apec " Indigenous peoples around the world are on the front lines of the climate crisis , and it is essential that we work together to find solutions." The meeting called for power-sharing with indigenous communities to ensure they are not marginalised in climate action efforts, and arrangements that respect indigenous sovereignty and self-determination. It highlighted that indigenous communities are often disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change, and hold valuable knowledge and expertise that can help reduce its effects. The Forum wants the voices of Maori climate leaders to be heard, and their perspectives integrated into climate action planning and decision-making processes. Haaland said she was grateful for the opportunity to meet with Maori climate leaders and learn from their experiences. "I am deeply committed to working with indigenous communities to address the impacts of climate change," she said. "We must listen to the voices of those who are most affected by climate change and take action to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and protect our planet for future generations." Haaland said the Biden Administration was committed to working with indigenous communities to address climate change. The United Nations Climate Change Conference will take place in Dubai in November.