MKO Commends Youth Taking Part in the Global Climate Strike

September 27, 2019

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is commending youth across the province and the globe in their efforts to raise awareness on the importance of taking action to protect Mother Earth.

“Climate change is an urgent issue we must address immediately,” stated Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “First Nations people lived here on Turtle Island for time immemorial and we always knew how to care for the earth in a way to sustain life for all. With acolonization, our sustainable way of living has been disrupted and the negative impacts on Indigenous peoples and the environment are clear. We need to hear the teachings of our Elders and ensure a healthy future for our young people—we must take steps to live in a more sustainable way.”

Climate change is already having a significant impact on Northern communities. Warmer global temperatures mean melting permafrost, longer wildfire seasons, and less time to rely on winter ice roads, which are a lifeline for remote First Nations in Manitoba.

“Today hundreds of thousands of young people will take to the streets across the Canada,” said Grand Chief Settee. “I commend all of the young people in Manitoba and across the world in their efforts to stand up to protect our land and waterways. As Grand Chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, I am listening to your concerns, I stand with you, and I thank you raising awareness on this important issue.”

NT5