Indigenous women from across the globe gathered at the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to observe Indigenous Women's Day. The event, themed "Indigenous Women as Leaders in Climate Action," highlighted the crucial role Indigenous women play in environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
Yolene Patricia Koteureu, a Kanak representative from New Caledonia, shared her community's efforts to protect their cultural heritage and natural resources. She emphasized the importance of women in preserving traditional knowledge and advocating for sustainable practices, such as the campaign to reinstate the Kanak mat and protect against the harmful effects of mining.
Koteureu stressed the power of collective action and the need for greater collaboration among Indigenous communities. She expressed optimism for the future, believing that increased awareness and action, driven by Indigenous knowledge and leadership, will lead to positive change. "Solutions are here already, and it's being held by Indigenous people, so I'm optimistic for the future," Koteureu stated.