Indigenous peoples are among the first to face the direct consequences of climate change due to their dependence upon and close relationship with the environment and its resources. Indigenous women’s rights defenders shared examples of intersectional approaches to promote women’s environmental rights, enhance access to justice for women, and address climate justice gaps, including environmental justice, food security, sexual violence, property rights, and economic equity. They discussed approaches to empower indigenous women to claim their rights, participate in sustainable development, and take leadership roles in climate-related decision-making processes.
Opening Remarks:
Renee Dopplick, ABA Representative to the United Nations
Moderator:
Mary Smith, ABA President-Elect nominee; ABA Representatives and Observers to the United Nations
Panelists:
- Wenona T. Singel, Associate Director, Indigenous Law and Policy Center, Michigan State University College of Law
- Michelle Diffenderfer, Chair, ABA Environment, Energy, and Resources Section; President and a Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
- Pilar M. Thomas, Partner, Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Practice Group, Quarles & Brady, LLP