Climate Change in Native America Series

The Harvard University Native American Program (HUNAP), the Salata Institute Climate Accelerator, and the Harvard Kennedy School Project on Indigenous Governance and Development invite you to our Fall 2026 in-person speaker series centered on the critical intersections of Tribal Nations, climate change, and environmental justice. 

This series aims to elevate Indigenous knowledge systems, governance strategies, and community-led solutions that address the disproportionate impacts of environmental change on Native Nations. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, the series will highlight Tribal sovereignty, stewardship practices, and climate resilience efforts, while fostering meaningful engagement between Indigenous leaders, scholars, students, and the broader Harvard community. Grounded in the themes of Water, Land, and Animal Relatives, the series will provide space for critical reflection, knowledge exchange, and relationship-building, aligning with our commitment to Tribal diplomacy, community partnership, and academic excellence. 

Event 1: Land — Stewardship, Climate Resilience, and Rematriation (Wednesday, October 14)
Centered on land-based knowledge and governance, this event will examine Indigenous stewardship practices, land rematriation movements, and climate adaptation strategies. The program will highlight how Native Nations are leading innovative approaches to land management, conservation, and sustainability rooted in traditional ecological knowledge. In addition, this event will engage the ongoing tensions between non-Native conservation frameworks and Tribal sovereignty, including differing approaches to land use, governance authority, and environmental protection. These discussions will create space to critically examine how conservation efforts can both support and, at times, conflict with Indigenous rights, self-determination, and stewardship priorities. 

• Moderator: 
  • W. Tanner Allread (Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma) - Assistant Professor of Law at Harvard Law School

Event 2: Animal Relatives — Biodiversity, Responsibility, and Interconnection (Wednesday, October 28)
This event will focus on the relationships between Native communities and animal relatives, emphasizing biodiversity, conservation, and ethical responsibility. Topics may include the protection of endangered species, the role of animals in cultural lifeways, and Indigenous approaches to ecological balance in the face of climate change. 

• Moderator:
  • Leah Hopkins (Narragansett Indian Tribe) - Tribal Liaison for the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation

Event 3: Water — Sovereignty, Protection, and Lifeways (Wednesday, November 4)
This event will explore the cultural, legal, and ecological significance of water to Native Nations. Discussions will focus on water rights, protection of sacred waterways, climate-related threats such as drought and contamination, and Indigenous-led advocacy efforts. Speakers may include Tribal leaders, legal scholars, and environmental practitioners working at the forefront of water justice. 

Event Details:

• Wednesday, October 14: Land (6-8 PM)
• Wednesday, October 28, Animal Relatives (6-8 PM)
• Wednesday, November 4: Water (6-8 PM)

Location: Fong Auditorium, Boylston Hall

All events followed by reception