Panel explores Indigenous approaches to sustainability at Northwestern

The Native American and Indigenous Student Alliance Advocacy Committee and student publication In Our Nature co-hosted a panel discussion titled “Indigenous Approaches to Environmental Justice” at Northwestern University on Friday, according to The Daily Northwestern.

Panelists Forrest Bruce, who is Ojibwe, and Cece Hoffman discussed Indigenous land-based education and its role in addressing environmental issues. Bruce said traditional systems of learning existed before colonization and emphasized connecting with the land and ancestors through outdoor education. Hoffman said reviving Indigenous practices is critical to environmental justice.

Audience members shared perspectives on maintaining ancestral traditions and protecting Indigenous sovereignty. Participants agreed that preserving cultural and linguistic connections to the land remains central to Indigenous identity.