Fusing Indigenous and Western Knowledge Systems in the Tide of Global Change
A Webinar Series for the 2020s
About This Webinar Series
Supported by a grant from Way Forward / BT2P, the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) is hosting a series of six Zoom-based webinars and panel discussions focusing on science, environmentalism, human health, and social justice. In each session, a Wabanaki cultural knowledge keeper, young environmental stewards from Maine, and a contemporary Western scientist from UMFK (Dr. “Ned” Rubert-Nason) will describe how different global change topics are experienced through Indigenous, youth (age 15-30), and contemporary scientific points of view.
Following their presentations, there will be a panel discussion (moderated by a member of the Sustainability Club at UMFK) in which the audience gets to ask the guest speakers questions. Sessions will conclude with a summary of opportunities to continue working with the presenters, environmental stewards, and Indigenous communities to address environmental and human health challenges.
The Webinars
Our Sponsors & Partners
Bringing Theory to Practice
Founded in 2003, the Bringing Theory to Practice (BTtoP) Project works in partnership partnership with the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) to encourage and support colleges and universities in developing sustainable campus cultures that support the greater purposes of higher education: engaged learning and discovery, civic purpose, well-being, and preparation for a meaningful life. Learn more about BTtoP
Sustainability Club at UMFK
The Sustainability Club at the University of Maine at Fort Kent is a student run organization for students interested in learning about and working in the field of environmental sustainability. The Sustainability Club aims to foster communication and collaboration between students and environmental experts in the areas of environmental sustainability, climate change, and nature.
Maine Environmental Education Association (MEEA)
The Maine Environmental Education Association (MEEA) is committed to building healthy, resilient, sustainable communities in Maine and supports the work of all educators who are using nature and the out-of-doors in teaching and learning. Learn more about MEEA
Maine Youth for Climate Justice (MYCJ)
Maine Youth for Climate Justice (MYCJ) is a coalition of over 250 youth from all over Maine who fight for bold climate action, a just transition, and a livable future in Maine. MYCJ is open to anyone under the age of 30 who is interested in engaging at the local or state level about climate justice issues. Learn more about MYCJ
Wabanaki Youth in Science (Ways)
The Wabanaki Youth in Science (WaYS) program provides mentoring and training opportunities in the life sciences for Native American youth in Maine. This program, which was motivated by a shortage of young natural resource professionals to manage tribal lands, uses a multifaceted approach (i.e., camps, community outreach, and internships with cultural resource and natural resource mentors) to recruit and retain native youth in science fields. Learn more about WAYS