This is decolonization in action. Our people fought and died to live in our traditional ways and to protect the earth. The Oceti Sakowin — Lakota, Dakota, Nakota — were the last to stand in armed resistance to the U.S. government. From that fire rose the American Indian Movement (AIM), to Standing Rock and the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline (NO DAPL), and today we continue resisting the extractive industries that threaten our lands, waters, and futures.

At Climate Week 2025, we carry that spirit forward with Indigenous Youth Voices for Conservation (IYVC), a program of Not Our Native Daughters (NOND) that empowers Native youth through land- and water-based learning, outdoor recreation, and cultural teachings. Our youth are the future leaders of this movement — and they must be seen, heard, and supported in climate justice spaces where Indigenous voices have too often been excluded.

⸻

Featured Guests

Nataanii Means - Hip Hop Artist, Advocate for Indigenous & Environmental rights, Oglala Lakota, Omaha, Diné
Son of Russell Means, and carries forward the AIM legacy, intertwining art, music and activism to amplify truth and resistance.

Lynnette Grey Bull – Hunkpapa Lakota (Band of Sitting Bull, Standing Rock) & Northern Arapaho
Founder & Executive Director, Not Our Native Daughters | Leader, Indigenous Youth Voices for Conservation

AJ Hudson – Climate Justice Advocate, Educator, and Scholar
JD (Yale Law), MESc (Yale), DPhil Researcher (Oxford). Expert on law, climate, and equity, supporting Indigenous youth-led climate justice initiatives.

⸻

About Indigenous Youth Voices for Conservation

Indigenous Youth Voices for Conservation (IYVC) creates pathways for Native youth by combining outdoor adventure, traditional ecological knowledge, and cultural teachings. Youth participate in activities like snowboarding, rafting, and hiking while engaging in circle talks on leadership, healing, and climate justice. Guided by elders and knowledge sharers, they rise with skills, confidence, and vision to lead.