"The status of Tribes in the face of climate change is a reflection of our resilience and our responsibility. Indigenous knowledge systems have sustained our communities for generations, and now, they are critical to addressing the climate crisis. We must work together—Tribes, scientists, and policymakers—to ensure that Indigenous voices lead the way in shaping solutions that honor the land, water, and all living things."
James Rattling Leaf, Sr.
The inspiration for the STACC report was born from conversations with our Tribal colleagues and relatives, who felt strongly that a stand-alone report dedicated to highlighting the efforts, voices, and leadership of Indigenous People and communities was needed.
We are aware that Indigenous People have long been leading efforts to address the impacts of environmental threats such as flooding, fires, coastal erosion, drought, and much more. Although other national and global reports have included paragraphs and even chapters on Indigenous People, there was a clear need for a report that acknowledged our human and non-human relatives.
The STACC Report is an ongoing series written for diverse audiences, including Tribal managers, leaders, and community members; federal and state agencies and decision-makers; and non-governmental organizations. It elevates the voices and efforts of Indigenous Peoples, Nations, and communities and the space within published literature to share our stories about the environmental challenges and threats Indigenous people are experiencing and the solutions being implemented.
The reports are acts of resilience and self-determination intended to uplift Indigenous experiences and Indigenous Knowledge Systems in local, national, and global conversations.
The process has evolved to not only invite Knowledge Holders who are globally recognized for their work but also extended an invitation to the larger community beyond academia and government agencies. Since 2019, the process of convening the steering committee and author team has been facilitated by the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, (ITEP) which is housed at Northern Arizona University.
