|
For Jill Sherman-Warne, Executive Director of the Native American Environmental Protection Coalition (NAEPC), environmental stewardship is more than a cause—it’s a way of life that has been honored by Native communities for generations. Visit Website
Every Day is Earth Day
For many Native communities, Earth Day is every day. Tribal traditions have long emphasized deep respect for the land, water, plants, and animals—elements viewed as relatives rather than resources. “Historically, tribal people welcomed each day with gratitude, giving thanks to their brothers and sisters in nature, the Earth, Moon, and Sun,” Jill shares. “While modern life has changed some traditions, many still honor these gifts daily.”
NAEPC plays a crucial role in educating and supporting tribal communities in environmental stewardship, offering outreach and resources to help member tribes host Earth Day activities, from educational programs to community clean-ups.
Honoring Earth Day with Action
Earth Day, which began in the 1970s, has been embraced by Native communities as an opportunity to bring environmental awareness to the forefront. Many tribes celebrate by cleaning up roadsides, creeks, and rivers while coming together for meals, educational presentations, and traditional singing and dancing.
Driving Clean for a Sustainable Future
As the only non-profit created by tribes, for tribes, NAEPC is dedicated to empowering Native communities through sustainable initiatives. That’s why partnering with Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) was a natural fit. “NAEPC is a trusted partner to tribes, and we seek programs that bring direct benefits to Native communities,” Jill explains. By working with DCAP, NAEPC helps ensure that more tribal members can access clean transportation options, improving both environmental and public health outcomes.
Protecting Tribal Sovereignty & Addressing Climate Change
One of the most pressing challenges facing Native communities today is the threat to tribal sovereignty from federal policies that attempt to limit tribal governance. “NAEPC is working to help tribes respond in a coordinated effort,” Jill says. “Together, tribes are stronger.”
Another critical concern is climate change, which affects not just the land but also traditional values, ceremonies, and cultural practices. NAEPC is committed to raising awareness of these impacts while advocating for stronger state and federal policies to support Native communities.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Tribal Environmental Advocacy
NAEPC’s top priority is ensuring tribal voices are heard at all levels of government. By amplifying Indigenous perspectives in environmental policy discussions, the organization continues to uphold its mission of protecting both tribal sovereignty and the planet for future generations.
| 
