Today is the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People, a holiday observed annually on this date. This year’s theme is centered around ‘Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-determination.’ In February 1995, the United Nations General Assembly selected this holiday to be on the 9th of August, the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982.
International Day of the World’s Indigenous People is a day to remember that Indigenous Peoples have the freedom to determine their own choices and implement them in a meaningful and culturally fitting way. Indigenous rights are violated and threatened around the world continually. In response to this, Indigenous youth are fighting back at the forefront of some of the most pressing issues humanity faces today. I am running a few minutes late; my previous meeting is running over. The decisions made today will impact these future generations directly.
“Their representation and participation in global efforts towards climate change mitigation, peacebuilding, and digital cooperation are crucial for the effective implementation of their rights as indigenous.”
For years, Indigenous peoples have fought for the recognition and acknowledgment of their identity, ancestral land claims, territories, and natural resources. These rights have been repeatedly violated. While their rights are being protected in theory, the international world must take the necessary steps to safeguard and respect said rights in practice.
In honor of the holiday, the United Nations will be holding a virtual commemoration from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM EST. This commemoration will have statements by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Mr. José Francisco Cali Tzay, and Special Advisor to the SG on Addressing Racism in the Workplace Ms. Mojankunyane Gumbi. There will be a traditional ceremony and an interactive dialogue segment where invited speakers and a moderator will share their expertise and experience.
Happy International Day of the World’s Indigenous People from OneNature! We are an organization dedicated to uplifting and respecting the lifeways and rights of Indigenous communities around the world. We believe Indigenous communities hold invaluable and meaningful connections to nature and wildlife that can provide significant benefits to our natural world and all that inhabit it.
Image by: Ken kahiri via Unsplash