Watch the Inspiring Talk by Eriel Tchekwie Deranger: Indigenous-Led Climate Solutions
Click HERE to watch the full webinar.
WE-CAN was honoured to host Eriel Tchekwie Deranger at our March 14, 2025, Lunch and Learn webinar. Eriel, a passionate Indigenous rights and climate activist, was recently awarded a $4 million Climate Breakthrough Award grant to launch a global initiative ensuring Indigenous communities are fully recognized, resourced, and supported in climate action. If you missed her powerful talk, we invite you to watch the recording and learn about the transformative work she is leading.
Why This Talk Matters
Eriel is a Dënesųłiné member of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation and the co-founder and executive director of Indigenous Climate Action. She has spent over two decades fighting for Indigenous sovereignty and climate justice, organizing protests against the expansion of the tar sands and advocating for Indigenous-led climate solutions. Her new initiative aims to dismantle colonial barriers, secure proper funding, and amplify Indigenous voices and knowledge in global climate solutions.
The Heart of the Message
Indigenous peoples have deep knowledge of their lands and territories, based on having inhabited on and managed them for thousands and thousands of years before European settlers arrived. Indigenous lands also sequester enormous amounts of carbon, offering a critical solution to the climate crisis. Yet, Indigenous voices remain sidelined in decision-making spaces. In her talk, Eriel explains how colonialism, patriarchy, and extractivism have led to environmental destruction and how Indigenous land defence actively reduces carbon emissions—having actually mitigated 1.8 billion metric tons of CO2 in 2019, the equivalent of 28% of the combined CO2 emissions from the U.S. and Canada that year.
She highlights the need to move beyond consultation toward true Indigenous-led governance of lands and resources. Indigenous resistance, she asserts, is not just about stopping harm—it is about building a sustainable future for everyone, including the non-human world.
A Global Vision for Change
Eriel’s project will create a global Indigenous advisory council representing all seven sociocultural regions of the world. Together, they will develop strategies to elevate Indigenous climate leadership and reshape how climate policies are formed. She envisions a world where Indigenous knowledge is valued not as a romanticized idea but as a practical, proven pathway to restoring balance with Mother Earth.
Be Part of the Movement
If you care about climate justice, Indigenous rights, and a livable future for all, this is a talk you won’t want to miss. Watch the recording to hear Eriel’s powerful insights and learn how we can support this movement for systemic change.
