The Importance of Energy Sovereignty
Energy sovereignty is a critical issue for Native communities, who have been historically marginalized and excluded from decision-making processes surrounding energy development on their lands. The lack of control over energy resources has led to significant economic and environmental disparities. The Navajo Nation, for example, has seen its coal reserves depleted due to the lack of control over energy development. The same can be said for the Hopi Tribe, whose natural gas reserves have been exploited without their consent. These examples illustrate the devastating impact of energy sovereignty on Native communities.
The Role of Indigenized Energy
Indigenized Energy is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting energy sovereignty for Native communities. Through their work, they aim to empower communities to take control of their energy resources and develop sustainable energy solutions. Indigenized Energy has partnered with the Nike N7 program to support Native youth in developing their own energy projects. The organization has also worked with the Navajo Nation to develop a community-based renewable energy project.
The Legacy of Sam McCracken
Sam McCracken’s impact on the fashion industry extends far beyond his work with Nike. His dedication to Native design and fashion has paved the way for future generations of Native creatives.
The movement is driven by the recognition that the current energy system is unsustainable and that Indigenous peoples have a critical role to play in shaping the future of energy.
The Problem with the Current Energy System
The current energy system is built on a foundation of fossil fuels, which are finite and contribute to climate change. The extraction, transportation, and combustion of these fuels have devastating environmental and social impacts, including air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and the displacement of Indigenous communities. The extraction of fossil fuels is often done without the consent of Indigenous peoples, who have been forcibly removed from their lands to make way for mining and drilling operations. The transportation of fossil fuels is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with the extraction and transportation of oil, gas, and coal accounting for over 70% of global emissions. The combustion of fossil fuels is the primary source of air pollution, with particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide contributing to poor air quality and negative health impacts.
The Role of Indigenous Communities
Indigenous communities have a critical role to play in shaping the future of energy.
The Rise of Indigenized Energy
Indigenized Energy, a non-profit organization, has been instrumental in promoting the development of clean energy solutions among Native American tribes. The organization’s mission is to empower tribes to take control of their energy futures, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
A Growing Movement
The demand for clean energy is on the rise, and Native American tribes are at the forefront of this movement. With the increasing awareness of climate change and its devastating effects, tribes are seeking alternative energy sources that are sustainable, reliable, and culturally relevant. Indigenized Energy has been working tirelessly to support tribes in their efforts to develop and implement clean energy solutions.
Key Initiatives
Indigenized Energy has launched several initiatives to support Native American tribes in their clean energy journey.
The Importance of Uniting for the Future
The world is at a critical juncture, and the need for collective action has never been more pressing. Climate change, energy security, and sustainable development are just a few of the pressing issues that require immediate attention. In response to these challenges, a unique event is being organized to bring together thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from around the globe.
The Purpose of Uniting for the Future
The primary objective of Uniting for the Future is to foster a sense of community and shared purpose among individuals and organizations working towards a sustainable future.
“We just need to tap into it.”
Harnessing the Power of Community
The concept of community is often misunderstood as a static entity, but in reality, it’s a dynamic and ever-evolving force that can be harnessed to drive positive change. Two Bears, a respected elder and leader in the community, emphasizes the importance of tapping into the collective energy of the people.
