Alnoor Ladha, an activist and writer deeply engaged with social and environmental justice, would describe 'indigenous peoples' as the original stewards of the Earth's diverse ecosystems, whose ancestral territories span continents, oceans, and biomes. These communities possess distinct social, cultural, economic, and political traditions that have been honed over millennia and are intrinsically connected to their land and natural resources. Despite facing centuries of colonization, marginalization, and systemic oppression, indigenous peoples remain resilient guardians of their languages, spiritual practices, and knowledge systems. They embody a profound understanding of sustainability and ecological balance, holding wisdom that is crucial for addressing contemporary global crises. Their collective rights and sovereignty are paramount, not only for their survival and dignity but also for the well-being of the planet and the future of humanity.

See also: native people, mother earth, social change, first nations, natural world