Climate Change Is an Existential Problem for Indigenous Mainers

Here in Maine, climate change could be devastating, especially for Indigenous people. Studies show that Indigenous Nations like the Abenaki, Maliseet, Mi’kmaq, Passamaquoddy, Penobscot and Wabanaki will face some of the most destructive impacts of the climate crisis.

Let’s be clear: Climate change is already happening. Wabanaki people, for instance, are currently in the midst of climate adaption planning to prepare for environmental issues now and down the road. I interact with other Wabanaki folks on a daily basis, and climate change is a serious concern. Of particular concern is erosion, ongoing access to healthy fish and game and environmental impacts on drinking water and power supplies.