The 2023-24 Circle of Earth Ambassadors has redefined what it means to lead with purpose and passion, using their voices and actions to advocate for environmental stewardship and sustainability in Indian Country. Selected for their demonstrated leadership and commitment to their communities, these ambassadors have made a lasting impact through innovative initiatives, educational workshops, and grassroots projects. Their work embodies the mission of UNITY’s Environmental Stewardship and Leadership Cohort: empowering Native youth to address environmental challenges while promoting cultural and community resilience.
2024 – A Year of Purposeful Action
Throughout the year, the Earth Ambassadors participated in monthly virtual meetings and training sessions, deepening their understanding of pressing environmental issues like conservation, regeneration, and restoration. These sessions also created a space for collaboration, fostering a shared sense of purpose among ambassadors and youth councils nationwide. “Each meeting inspired me to think about how we can incorporate traditional teachings into modern solutions,” shared one ambassador.
One of their key milestones was securing the UNITY Environmental Community Project Mini-Grant, which provided funding to 10 youth councils to launch community-led environmental projects. This financial support empowered local initiatives that ranged from waterway preservation to traditional harvesting practices, demonstrating the tangible impact of youth-driven advocacy.
Advocating on National Platforms
The Earth Ambassadors took their message to the national stage during the White House Tribal Youth Forum, where they advocated for environmental justice, water preservation, and sustainable land stewardship. As one ambassador noted, “Being part of the White House Tribal Youth Forum was an incredible opportunity to amplify our message and show that Native youth are leading the charge in protecting the planet.”
At the UNITY Midyear Conference in Phoenix, AZ, the ambassadors engaged their peers in dynamic sessions, including speed workshops on environmental strategies and a panel discussion on “Environmental Advocacy.” These workshops inspired action and educated youth on actionable steps to make a difference in their communities.
Earth Day: A Celebration of Roots and Responsibility
In April, the ambassadors spearheaded the Earth Day Instagram Takeover, sharing daily environmental themes and practical tips leading up to Earth Day. From Zero Waste Sunday to Plant-a-Seed Saturday, these posts encouraged UNITY’s network to adopt sustainable practices and reflect on their role in environmental stewardship. “Our goal was to show that small, everyday actions can create meaningful change,” explained one ambassador.
They also hosted a powerful Earth Day Webinar, “Growing Our Roots to Celebrate Earth Day,” which highlighted how Indigenous knowledge and youth leadership can address today’s climate challenges. This event emphasized the importance of intertwining cultural preservation with environmental advocacy.
Leading with Vision: Key Initiatives
The 2024 Circle of Earth Ambassadors tackled critical environmental issues through diverse platforms and projects. Their initiatives included:
- Regenerative Food Systems: Promoting sustainable practices and traditional foods to build self-sufficient communities.
- Water Preservation and Protection: Advocating for the cultural and ceremonial significance of water and sustainable use practices.
- Comparative Climate Change: Exploring the intersection of traditional ecological knowledge and modern climate science.
- Restoring Tribal Resources: Engaging youth in traditional harvesting and gathering to reconnect with cultural practices.
A standout moment was their sticker design campaign, which raised awareness through creative visuals that celebrated Indigenous environmental stewardship.
Building a Legacy of Environmental Advocacy
The 2023-24 Circle of Earth Ambassadors exemplifies the power of Native youth leadership in addressing global challenges through local action. By blending traditional teachings with contemporary solutions, they have not only inspired their peers but also created a lasting legacy for future generations.
Their work reminds us that environmental stewardship is not just about protecting the land—it’s about honoring cultural traditions, fostering connection, and empowering communities. As one ambassador shared, “Our roots run deep, and so does our responsibility to care for the Earth and for one another.”
The Circle of Earth Ambassadors has set a high standard for what youth-driven advocacy can achieve, proving that small actions rooted in culture and community can create transformative change. Through their efforts, they continue to grow a movement that celebrates Indigenous leadership and protects the planet for generations to come.