Indigenous Peoples are recognized worldwide as the protectors of nature
Today, the Government of Canada announced $600,000 in funding for 10 new projects, under the Indigenous Guardians Pilot Program. The funding will support the projects in 2020–2021 under the First Nations tier 1 stream of the Program.
The Indigenous Guardians Pilot Program strives to advance Indigenous-led work to protect and conserve ecosystems, develop and maintain sustainable economies, and reinforce cultural connection to the land. The 10 successful projects were chosen out of more than 100 proposals by a joint working group of First Nations experts and federal representatives. All proposals were reviewed against rigorous criteria for their benefit to Indigenous communities and sustainability.
“We are pleased to see these investments support the launch of new Guardians programs. It means more guardians will be shaping the future of their nations, and more lands and waters will be managed for the benefit of all.” – Valérie Courtois, Director of Indigenous Leadership Initiative
Guardians act as the “eyes and ears on the ground.” These projects will enable First Nations to take action to monitor ecological health, maintain cultural sites, and protect sensitive areas and species. Both seasonal and full-time employment opportunities will be created as a result.
Indigenous Peoples are recognized worldwide as the protectors of nature, with Indigenous Peoples’ territories containing as much as 80 percent of the world’s remaining forest biodiversity.
Indigenous guardians are a key part of Canada’s Nature Legacy. To date, the Government has funded over 60 projects through the Indigenous Guardians Pilot Program, with a total investment of approximately $21.4 million.
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