The NC CASC recognizes the deep relationship that Indigenous peoples have as caretakers of the lands that comprise the United States of America and beyond. We honor their past, present and future stewardship of these lands, and recognize the importance and value of Indigenous Knowledges in addressing the environmental challenges we face today. We acknowledge that historical injustices have amplified the impacts of climate changes to underserved and underrepresented communities and we seek to address this in the climate services we provide. 

The NC CASC fosters innovative and applied research in support of Tribal, federal, state and local natural resource management and decision-making. Partnerships with Tribal nations in the North Central region and beyond are unique in that Indigenous peoples have a depth of knowledge extending for millennia. We are actively working to make space for and raise the voices of Tribal rights holders in addressing the climate, ecological, and societal impacts of climate change. 

With this in mind, we would like to celebrate the work of Kynser Wahwahsuck, Tribal Climate Resilience Liaison; James Rattling Leaf, Sr., Tribal Engagement Specialist; the Great Plains Tribal Water Alliance, consortium partner to the NC CASC; and all Tribal rights holders of the North Central region, whose work to address the climate crisis is invaluable. As we celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, we ask that everyone take the time to learn more about ongoing work by Tribal rights holders and uplift the voices of Indigenous peoples.