Indigenous Earth Community Podcast

What happens when a place your people have prayed at for a thousand years becomes a uranium mining site? And what can one voice actually do to stop it? Sumaya Quitugua, a young woman from the Acoma Pueblo in New Mexico and Chamorro from Guam, grew up at the Sky City, in traditional adobe homes on top of a mesa, where her grandfather taught her that we don't own the land or the water. We protect them. In this episode, Sumaya breaks down the fight for Chaco Canyon, a place protected by President Theodore Roosevelt over a century ago and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, now targeted for uranium mining right up against its borders. She explains what's really at stake, what mining does to land and water that can never be undone, and how a seven-day public comment window turned into a hundred and fifty days because people refused to stay silent. This is for anyone who's ever wondered whether speaking up actually changes anything, and anyone who wants to understand sacred land from the people who carry it. What You'll Discover: What actually makes a place sacred, and why it's a feeling, not a spot on a map Why the "buffer zone" around Chaco matters as much as the site itself What uranium mining really does to water, air, and the people who live there How seven days of public comment became a hundred and fifty How to visit a sacred site with respect, including what to do and what to say Why choosing not to learn is choosing to be part of the problem Resources: Follow Sumaya Quitugua on Instagram Learn about the threat to Chaco Culture National Historical Park (NPCA) Discover Chaco Canyon's dark skies, stargazing, and archaeology (National Geographic) 📚 Support This Podcast & Indigenous Youth Workshops: When you purchase books through our Indigenous Earth Bookshop, you directly support independent Indigenous booksellers AND fund our hands-on workshops for Native youth worldwide. Every book purchase helps preserve traditional ecological knowledge for the next generation. 🌱 Connect with Indigenous Earth: Newsletter: https://www.indigenousearth.org/newsletter/ Topics: Chaco Canyon, uranium mining, sacred sites, Acoma Pueblo, Indigenous land rights, public lands, water protection, UNESCO World Heritage Site, environmental justice, tribal sovereignty, public comment, land conservationPHOTOGRAPH COURTESY NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

What if the answers to the climate crisis are here? In this special Indigenous Peoples’ Day episode, host Frank Oscar Weaver speaks with Indigenous leaders from across the world who are on the front lines of the fight to protect their lands and our planet. Impirita, an Indigenous leader from Peru, shares the harsh reality her community faces as industrial mining contaminates rivers that have provided life and sustenance for generations. “All these rivers are contaminated, not just by sewage, but also by mining activities,” – Impirita Frank reflects on the wisdom of Indigenous teachings, like those of Dr. Don Dexter from the Klamath Tribes, who explains how removing Indigenous people from their lands disrupts a natural cycle that keeps ecosystems in balance. Beth Tupara-Katene from Aotearoa (New Zealand) reminds us of the deep responsibility of reciprocity between people and nature, and the urgent need to protect sacred lands. From the ancient mounds of the Tocobaga tribe in Florida, believed to protect the region from hurricanes, to the laws that silence the words "climate change," this episode explores the modern challenges Indigenous communities face. These storms and disasters are not merely natural—they are #UnnaturalDisasters, fueled by climate pollution. 🌍 Take Action: Support local tribes and advocate for Indigenous rights. Join efforts to protect sacred sites in Florida. Contribute to climate resilience projects and Indigenous-led initiatives. Join us in honoring the Earth by standing with those who have been defending it for generations. Credits: "It's a good day to be Indigenous” is a quote from 1998 independent film “Smoke Signals" Highly recommend it! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoke_Signals_(film) Music by SimonGrayA raw recording of the dawn opening ceremony and pōwhiri of the Harbourview Sculpture Trail on the Te Atatu Peninsula in Auckland. (The pōwhiri (or pōhiri) is the welcoming ceremony on a marae. Marae are not the only places where pōwhiri take place. Pōwhiri can happen anywhere that hosts (tangata whenua) wish to formally welcome a group of visitors (manuhiri).) https://freesound.org/people/simongray/sounds/339321/ 🎧 Listen now to learn how you can take meaningful steps to protect our planet and support Indigenous communities: Indigenous Earth Podcast.

We explore the tradition of Pachamama Day, celebrated on August 1st in Latin America. This day, originating from the Andean communities of South America, is dedicated to honoring Pachamama, the goddess of fertility and the earth. Growing up, Pachamama Day was one of my favorite holidays, a time to slow down and enjoy traditional drinks like Yerba mate drink of terere made with seven medicinal herbs and Carrulim, a Paraguayan beverage made from Caña, Ruda, and Limón. Join me as I recount a visit to Pedro Juan Caballero in Paraguay with my brother Jackson, where we met a medicine woman preparing herbs for these special drinks. You’ll learn about the significance of some of the herbs, and the ritual of giving back to Pachamama, echoing practices observed in the Andes. This episode is a celebration of gratitude and reciprocity, emphasizing how small acts of giving back to the earth can foster a deeper connection with nature. What You’ll Gain: Cultural Enrichment: Understand the rich traditions and rituals of Pachamama Day. Practical Wisdom: Learn how to incorporate Indigenous practices into your life to enhance your well-being and environmental stewardship. Inspiration to Act: Be inspired to take concrete steps, from community cleanups to tree planting, to contribute to the health of our planet. 00:00 Introduction to Pachamama Day 00:44 The Significance of Pachamama Day 01:14 Traditional Drinks and Their Origins 01:45 Personal Anecdotes and Beliefs 02:14 The Seven Herb Mixture 04:08 Giving Back to Pachamama 05:37 Call to Action and Conclusion 🌻 We would love to hear from you! Share your experiences and learnings about Pachamama on social media and tag us. Engage in community activities like cleanups and tree planting to deepen your connection with nature. 📧 Subscribe to our Indigenous Earth newsletter to watch a special video of me and my brother purchasing the herbs from the Yuyera a medicine woman, and see my Paraguayan grandmother help create this traditional drink. Thank you for joining us today. Until next time, stay connected with nature and with each other. Aguye! https://www.indigenousearth.org/ Topics We Explore: Indigenous wisdom and environmental practices Rituals and traditions like Pachamama Day Community involvement and sustainability efforts

In this episode of Indigenous Earth, we delve into the powerful story of the Kauaʻi ʻōʻō, the last bird of its kind, whose final song is a stark reminder of the silence left behind by extinction. Join Frank Oscar Weaver as he shares his journey into birdwatching during the pandemic and an inspiring van life adventure that brought him closer to birds and conservation. Learn more about Global Big Day, where bird enthusiasts worldwide use the eBird app to record, cherish, and protect the melodies that make our planet vibrant. Discover how you, too, can help safeguard these beautiful songs by participating and collecting the melodies of birds around you. Gain insights, find your passion, and be part of a global movement that strives to preserve the soundscape of our precious planet. Download the eBird app, and visit Cornell Lab's Global Big Day page for more information. Learn more about the Kauaʻi ʻōʻō bird. 🌏 Connect with us: Indigenous Earth Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 💚 🌻 We would love to hear from you! https://www.indigenousearth.org/contact/ ✌️

Let's hear about the mysterious Florida Bigfoot, believed to be the revered guardian of Florida's wildlife. Journey with us deeper, as we unravel ways to truly honor and connect with Mother Earth. Beginning by paying homage to the ancestral lands under our feet and appreciating the people they've seen. Grasp the depth of wisdom urging us to not just give back what we receive from nature but to recognize the immense energy she sacrifices for us. Hear with your heart an poem to you connect with nature... and in these critical times when our planet and our Florida waters are threaten by multiple challenges, listen to those who are speaking up, and be inspired to also become an Earth Guardian. Sign the petition: https://www.floridarighttocleanwater.org/ 🌏 "Life" poem written and performed by Sumaya Quitugua Shingle Creek words of support by Robert Rosa and Chris Castillo 🌻 Bigfoot, also known as the Swamp cabbage man, Mayaka skunk, and Florida skunk ape, is a mysterious yet benevolent creature believed to reside in the Florida swamps, often helping other animals in need. One of the key environmental concerns highlighted in the episode is the potential impact of radioactive mining waste. The state of Florida has recently signed a bill allowing roads to be made with this waste, despite the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stating that it is potentially linked to cancer and describing it as radioactive. This decision raises concerns about the long-term effects on the environment and human health. The runoff from these roads could further pollute the water that flows into lakes and eventually into the Gulf, exacerbating the already existing issue of water pollution. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/florida-radioactive-roads-phosphogypsum-potentially-cancer-causing-mining-waste-bill-signed-ron-desantis/ Another pressing issue discussed in the episode is the importance of preserving wetlands. Wetlands play a crucial role in the ecosystem by filtering water and providing habitat for a diverse range of species. However, the ongoing development in Florida is threatening these wetlands. The loss of wetlands not only disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem but also contributes to increased flooding in the area. The wetlands act as natural buffers, absorbing excess water during heavy rainfall. Without them, the risk of flooding becomes even greater. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/supreme-court-epa-clean-water-act/ The episode also highlights the alarming record number of manatee deaths. Manatees, beloved marine mammals, are suffering due to the pollution and degradation of their habitat. This serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. https://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/2023/01/11/800-florida-manatees-died-2022-starvation-lingers-most-survived-red-tide/ The episode concludes with a powerful message, urging listeners to treat Mother Earth with kindness and love, and to give more then we receive, as we all have a responsibility to honor and give back to the power that gave us life. Connect with us: Indigenous Earth Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver 💚 Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! ✌️

Let's meet Jm (him/her) from the Tboli people of the Philippines, a fashion designer using organic materials found in nature to craft stunning, sustainable fashion pieces. Jm's passion extends beyond just fashion; she aspires to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders through his work. The conversations reveal her journey from a child dreaming of fashion design to his innovative approach to sustainable fashion today. We further delve into emotionally powerful stories, examining the challenges, triumphs, and undying spirit of these creative individual. Listen to Jm's story about how he used the negativity he faced when first starting out as fuel to create even better designs. In this episode we discover that even in adversity, creativity finds a way. By using the raw materials of our environment,Jm was able to create beauty while inspiring a new generation to care about our planet. With each leaf, each piece of bark, weaving dresses that tells a story of resilience, innovation, and hope. That is the heart of Dahon Fashion! 🌿Connect and support DAHON FASHION: https://www.facebook.com/jmganuan Jmdeeganuan@gmail.com ☀️Connect with Arjho Turner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjhoturner/ 🌎 We hope you've been inspired by our conversation! Here's how you can keep the momentum going: Keep Listening: This story is just one thread in the tapestry of indigenous creativity and environmental leadership. So, keep tuning in to hear more captivating narratives that weave a beautiful future. Share the Inspiration: If this episode moved you, it's sure to inspire a friend as well. Pass on the wisdom and strength found in these stories by sharing this podcast with someone you care about. Connect with Jm: Her journey doesn't end with this episode. Connect with Jm directly and support his passion for sustainable fashion. Your help could provide the tools he needs to keep inspiring his community and the world. Rate Us: If you appreciate the stories we bring to light, let us know! Give us a good rating on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback helps us keep illuminating the powerful narratives of indigenous communities across the globe. Thank you for joining us on this journey. Together, we're making a difference one conversation at a time.💚 🌏 Connect with us: Indigenous Earth Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver 🌻

🎤 Using Music to Fight Plastic Pollution with Togbe Ghana Togbe Ghana is an Ewe activist, musician and entrepreneur on a mission to beat plastic pollution in Ghana. He founded Let's Go Clean the Beach Ghana and uses his music to spread awareness about the harm of plastic waste on our planet. In this episode, you will learn the following: Using Music as a Tool for Change - How Togbe Ghana is Using Music to Create Awareness and Bring About Change Connect and Support Togbe Ghana: https://www.instagram.com/letsgocleanthebeachghana/ https://www.gofundme.com/f/cape-coast-beach-clean-up-and-musicians ""Love for nature and love for mama earth is the driving force behind my mission to beat plastic pollution."" -Togbe Ghana 🌎 Welcome to Indigenous Earth Community Podcast. Where we celebrate Indigenous heroes from around the world, and learn from them on how to honor the traditions of protecting the planet. We discuss actionable tips on how to connect to our beautiful planet while lessening our daily impact. 🌏 Connect with us: Indigenous Earth Hosted by Frank Oscar Weaver Please help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing this episode with a friend! 💚 🌻 We would love to hear from you! https://www.indigenousearth.org/contact/ ✌️

From the Murray–Darling river system, one of the largest in the world, and home to ancient fish traps, with a rich and deep culture is where my next guest Kabushka Ngemba comes from. Kabushka Ngemba is a very successful commissioned contemporary indigenous artist with a background in mental health and an ambassador for Australian First Nation arts & culture for both indigenous and non indigenous peoples by hosting art workshops. We chat about how she discovered rocks in the river bed that inspired her to become an artist, using art to heal, grounding oneself with nature, and the culture and traditions of the Aboriginals of Australia. Kabushka hosts online and in person workshops on mob art therapy and dot art circle. "Learn all about the meaning of indigenous art, the stories behind each component and compose your own work of art, by the end of the session. Kabushka is a thoroughly entertaining storyteller, and passionate about sharing her incredible aboriginal culture with you, and with the world at large. Kabushka Ngemba brings her humour, warmth and generous heart to share her time, knowledge and spirit through Indigenous Art as therapy." https://kabushkangemba.com https://www.facebook.com/kabushka.ngemba.7 🌍🌎🌏 Welcome to Indigenous Earth Community Podcast Where we celebrate Indigenous heroes from around the world, and learn from them on how to honor the traditions of protecting the planet. We discuss actionable tips on how to connect to our beautiful planet while lessening our daily impact. https://www.indigenousearth.org ☀️ *Mental Help is available * Speak with someone today , In the U.S call 988