A new Vermont-focused 'American Abenaki' curriculum has been criticized by Quebec-based Abenaki nations for excluding their perspectives and asserting a distinct identity, leading to political and cultural disputes over Indigenous recognition and history.
Stingless bees from the Amazon have become the first insects to be granted legal rights in a groundbreaking move in Peru, recognizing their ecological and cultural importance, and aiming to protect them from threats like deforestation, pesticides, and invasive species. This legal recognition is seen as a potential catalyst for global efforts to conserve wild bee populations and their vital role in ecosystems.
Dozens of Indigenous protesters forcibly entered the COP30 climate summit venue in Belém, Brazil, clashing with security to demand land rights and forest protection, highlighting ongoing tensions between Indigenous communities and industry development in the Amazon. Security responded with barricades and injuries, but the summit continued as negotiations persisted.
Indigenous protesters forcibly entered the COP30 climate summit venue in Belem, Brazil, demanding greater influence in forest management and climate action, leading to clashes with security and minor damages, while the event continued amidst ongoing negotiations.
Protesters, including indigenous groups, stormed the COP30 climate talks venue in Belém, Brazil, highlighting concerns over rainforest development and environmental issues, leading to security breaches and clashes with security personnel during the event.
A human skull found on a riverbank in Indiana has been dated to approximately 2,300 B.C., highlighting a significant archaeological discovery that underscores the long history of Native American presence in the area, and prompting collaboration for respectful handling and repatriation.
Sweden has begun relocating the 113-year-old Kiruna Church, the country's most beautiful building, about 5 km to allow for the expansion of an underground iron ore mine, a process involving a slow, historic move watched by thousands, including the king. The move is part of a larger effort to shift much of the town due to mining-induced ground instability, but it raises concerns among the Sami community about the impact on reindeer migration routes and indigenous livelihoods.
New research suggests that the Clovis people, who migrated to North America around 13,000 years ago, heavily relied on mammoths for food and clothing, which may have contributed to the mammoths' extinction. The study, using isotopic analysis, found that mammoth meat constituted a significant portion of the Clovis diet, challenging previous assumptions of a more diverse diet. The findings also highlight the importance of consulting Indigenous communities in archaeological research, as demonstrated by the researchers' collaboration with tribes in Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho.
Indigenous islanders evacuated due to climate change react to new housing provided by the Panamanian government, expressing mixed feelings about their relocation and the new living conditions.
French President Emmanuel Macron visited New Caledonia to address violent unrest sparked by a voting reform plan that indigenous Kanaks believe will dilute their political influence. The riots have resulted in six deaths and hundreds of injuries, prompting France to deploy thousands of military reinforcements. Macron's visit aims to restore peace and security in the territory, which has a history of tension over French rule and independence movements.
Sydney Roosters forward Spencer Leniu has been suspended for eight matches after being found guilty of using a racial slur towards Indigenous Australian rugby league player Ezra Mam during a match in Las Vegas. Leniu pleaded guilty and apologized, but Mam expressed anger and disappointment, stating that the incident affected his focus during the game. The Roosters CEO believes Leniu did not intend the term in a racially derogatory way and stated that the club will provide further education about Indigenous and Torres Strait Island cultures for the team.
A 45-year-old man in Australia has been charged with assault after a video surfaced showing him restraining young Indigenous children with zip ties. The incident occurred when the man found the children swimming in an unoccupied pool and allegedly restrained them for causing damage. The man has been granted bail and is due to appear in court later in March. The treatment of Indigenous children is a sensitive issue in Australia due to historical government policies and ongoing incidents of abuse.
Minnesota has unveiled a new license plate honoring missing and murdered Indigenous people, requiring a $15.50 fee and a minimum $25 annual contribution to the Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Account. The funds raised will be used to bring awareness to cases, educate the public, and prevent future incidents. The plate features a red handprint symbolizing the silencing of Indigenous people and the violence they've faced throughout history. This initiative aims to spread awareness and honor missing and murdered Indigenous relatives on a daily basis.
Native American activists, led by Rhonda LeValdo, continue to protest against the use of Native American imagery and references by the Kansas City Chiefs, demanding a name change and the elimination of offensive rituals. Research shows the negative impact of such imagery on Native youth, and while the team has made some changes, activists argue that the remaining symbols and rituals are still offensive. The activists are in Las Vegas to protest during the Super Bowl, highlighting the ongoing struggle against cultural degradation and the need for genuine respect and understanding.
Over 10,000 New Zealand Maori gathered to discuss their response to government plans perceived as undermining their rights and status, with Maori King Tuheitia emphasizing the need for action. The government's proposed policies, aiming to address voter concerns and provide equal rights, have been criticized as a significant step backward for Maori rights. The meeting included discussions on national unity and the significance of the Maori version of the Treaty of Waitangi, with attendees urged to uphold Maori values and identity.