Environmental injustice happens when Indigenous people are forced to leave their lands that are closely linked to their way of life and the natural world around them. This displacement is harmful and can lead to the destruction of their communities. By pushing them off their lands, it is unfair treatment of tribal communities in terms of the environment. The concept of environmental racism, which focuses on discrimination based on the environment, does not fully capture the ongoing problems faced by Indigenous people who have political connections. Existing laws and policies do not effectively address these issues. To fully understand and address the environmental injustices experienced by tribal communities, it is important to consider indigenous perspectives and reflect on the colonial history and system of the United States.
Making sure tribal communities in New Mexico are treated fairly when it comes to environmental issues is a big deal. The problems they face include dirty water, air pollution from nearby factories, and the effects of climate change. To help with this, it’s important to involve the tribal communities in environmental decisions, listen to what they have to say, and respect their right to make their own choices. Working together with tribal leaders, checking how projects affect the environment, and using sustainable practices are all important ways to make sure tribal communities in New Mexico are treated fairly when it comes to the environment. It’s also helpful to support projects that the community leads, invest in clean energy, and push for better rules to protect the environment. It’s important to remember the special connections tribal communities have to the land and work to keep those connections strong for the future.
The Nature Conservancy wants “to support and engage Indigenous peoples as they strengthen their voices, choices, and actions to manage their homelands in ways that improve lives and create healthy lands and waters to support sustainable traditional and cultural resource practices” (The Nature Conservancy, 2024). To ensure the success and longevity of their work, they are committed to cultivating deep relationships that are guided towards innovative approaches. “TNC is committed to creating, promoting, and perpetuating a narrative and future in which nature and people can thrive and coexist. Our mission must encompass inclusion, collaboration, and support of the ancestral and current stewards of our natural systems” (The Nature Conservancy, 2024). The Nature Conservancy has cared for New Mexico lands and waters since ancient times, displaying honor and acknowledgment to the traditional stewards, both in the past and present, as well as those who will carry on this important role in the future. Opportunities to acknowledge the homelands of the Indigenous peoples of the U.S. Southwest, including New Mexico, which is home to 19 Pueblo communities, Fort Sill Apache, Jicarilla Apache, Mescalero Apache, Navajo Peoples, and Ute Mountain Tribe.
The Nature Conservancy. (2024, April 10). Working with Indigenous Peoples. Retrieved from https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/new-mexico/stories-in-new-mexico/working-with-indigenous-peoples/