government does not protect Indigenous women,” ChasingHorse declared. “They allow the violence against us to continue. They allow the destruction of our lands and waters. They do not honor our treaties, nor do they respect our sovereignty.”
ChasingHorse’s statement was met with a standing ovation, a stark contrast to the silent response to Heartney’s speech. The room buzzed with energy as Indigenous women and their allies stood in solidarity with her words.
The 2025 UNPFII continued with more powerful statements from Indigenous leaders and representatives, shedding light on the ongoing struggles and resilience of Indigenous women worldwide. The discussions centered around the importance of preserving Indigenous cultures, supporting Indigenous women’s rights, and holding governments accountable for their actions.
As the forum came to a close, Chair Aluki Kotierk emphasized the need for continued dialogue and action to ensure the well-being and empowerment of Indigenous women. She called on all nations to work together to address the systemic issues that impact Indigenous communities and to uphold the rights and dignity of Indigenous women.
The 2025 UNPFII served as a platform for Indigenous voices to be heard and for Indigenous women to be recognized as the leaders and protectors of their communities. It was a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of Indigenous women, and the importance of supporting and uplifting their voices in the fight for justice and equality.
The decision to open the coastal plain to oil and gas leasing has sparked outrage and concern among Indigenous communities, particularly the Gwich’in people. The coastal plain, known as Iizhik Gwats’an Gwandaii Goodlit, holds significant cultural and environmental importance as “the Sacred Place Where Life Begins.”
In a strong statement, ChasingHorse expressed the Gwich’in people’s lack of consent for development on their lands, emphasizing that their right to self-determination is being violated. The commodification of their lands by outside interests is seen as a threat to their survival and future. ChasingHorse’s words serve as a direct rebuttal to Heartney’s message, highlighting the deep-rooted concerns of Indigenous communities.
Recently, Heartney announced the United States’ rejection of the UN’s sustainable development goals, citing a rejection of globalist endeavors like Agenda 2030 and the SDGs. This decision has further fueled tensions and raised questions about the priorities of the government in relation to Indigenous rights and environmental protection.
During a discussion on Indigenous consent, Chief Gary Harrison of Chickaloon Village drew attention to the high rates of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) cases in his community. He questioned the necessity of governments making decisions that impact Indigenous lands without their consent, pointing out the urgency of addressing pressing issues within Indigenous communities.
The forum echoed with applause as Chief Harrison’s words resonated with the audience, highlighting the frustration and anger felt by many Indigenous peoples towards the lack of consultation and respect for their rights. The call for meaningful dialogue and inclusion of Indigenous voices in decision-making processes was clear, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honoring Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination.
As the debate over the coastal plain’s future continues, it is evident that the voices of Indigenous communities must be heard and respected. The protection of sacred lands and the preservation of cultural heritage are essential for the well-being and survival of Indigenous peoples. It is crucial for governments and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration with Indigenous communities to ensure a sustainable and equitable future for all.
