Editor’s Note: This blog was written by Lily Saperston, a Youth Engagement Organizer for ICL. Lily is a senior at Boise High School and an avid climate activist. She also helps lead the Youth Salmon Protectors in advocating for the removal of the four lower Snake River dams to save wild salmon and steelhead from extinction, restore orca, and honor Tribal treaties.
In early March, Green Teams (a type of climate and sustainability club at schools) from around the Treasure Valley gathered to learn from each other’s achievements and participate in the City of Boise’s third annual Youth Climate Action Summit. Teens gathered to discuss climate change education, and learned more about the impact the climate crisis has on Indigenous communities. I was honored to be a part of these important conversations with my intelligent peers.
Climate Education
At the core of the summit is a commitment to climate education. Students and teachers engaged in discussions about the current climate education students are getting and steps to improve it Empowering young people with knowledge about climate change not only equips them to make informed decisions about their future, but also instills a sense of responsibility to act as stewards of the planet.
Indigenous Justice: Amplifying Voices and Perspectives
Acknowledging the interconnectedness of environmental and social justice, the summit placed a strong emphasis on Indigenous perspectives and the importance of centering Indigenous voices in the climate movement. A young Indigenous graduate student shared her wisdom and experiences, highlighting the vital role of Indigenous knowledge in environmental stewardship.
By recognizing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities, participants engaged in discussions on how to support Indigenous-led initiatives and advocate for environmental justice. By centering Indigenous perspectives, the summit underscored the importance of honoring traditional wisdom and fostering collaboration with Indigenous communities in the fight against climate change.
School Projects and Green Initiatives: Driving Change at the Local Level
The summit also provided a platform for high school Green Teams to showcase their projects and initiatives aimed at making their schools more environmentally sustainable. From recycling programs to community gardens, students shared inspiring examples of grassroots activism and collective action.
Through learning and collaboration, students exchanged ideas and best practices for implementing green initiatives in their schools and communities. The connection between these schools has empowered students to reach out to each other, learn from each other, and celebrate every step toward more sustainable practices.
As students started to become restless from a long day, Mayor McLean entered to speak to the high schoolers about their voices and how powerful they truly are. Armed with knowledge, innovation, and a commitment to justice, Treasure Valley youth are poised to lead the charge in addressing the climate crisis and building a more sustainable future for generations to come. The Youth Climate Action Summit served as a powerful reminder that when young people come together with a shared purpose, we have the potential to spark transformative change.
Want to support ICL’s youth activism efforts? Follow Youth Salmon Protectors on Instagram or make a donation to support their program today!