CLM425
Indigenous Perspectives in Climate Action
Indigenous peoples are among those that contribute the least to the climate crisis yet are impacted the most through the loss of lands, waterways, and changing weather patterns. They are also structurally excluded in the political discourse and policy processes that combat the effects of climate change. Despite this suppression of rights and decision-making authority, many Indigenous communities have demonstrated significant leadership on climate action.
This course will introduce Indigenous worldviews and knowledge systems and explore how they relate to science and climate action. You will explore an Indigenous rights-based approach in order to develop the skills to respectfully and reciprocally engage with Indigenous communities on climate action. Understanding the major role that colonization plays in the climate crisis is an essential lens for this course.
Overview
Location: Online
Format: Self-paced within deadlines set by instructor
Duration: 6 weeks
Tuition: $699
Can be applied to:
Climate Action Certificate
Upcoming Offerings
- Wed, May 8 (self-paced all week)
- Wed, May 15 (self-paced all week)
- Wed, May 22 (self-paced all week)
- Wed, May 29 (self-paced all week)
- Wed, Jun 5 (self-paced all week)
- Wed, Jun 12 (self-paced all week)
What you will learn
After completing this course, you’ll be able to do the following:
- Explore Indigenous science and worldviews that relate to climate action, and understand the role and value of two-eyed seeing
- Describe the contemporary and historical context of colonialism and its impact on Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples’ relationships with the land and waters
- Explain the significance of Indigenous rights to resource development conflicts, including treaty and Aboriginal rights as well as the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
- Identify the unique impacts of climate change on Indigenous people and communities with a particular focus on holistic understandings of health and wellness
- Apply key skills and competencies to respectfully support and engage with Indigenous communities in climate action
How you will learn and be evaluated
- Prepare to spend about 8 hours per week on coursework
- Expect reading, videos, online discussions and skill-building activities
- Optional: Meet online with the class and instructor or guest speaker as scheduled by the instructor (recording available)
Learning Materials
No textbook is required. We will provide all course materials online.
Technical Requirements
For online courses, you will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online system that will be used for the course. For more information and online support, visit Online Learning.
Professional development credits
AIBC CES participants, PIBC members and BCSLA members may self-report for continuing education learning unit consideration.