b'ENVIRONMENTFirst Nations Should Be Leading Canadas Charge Against Climate ChangeT he pervasive and rapid decline of our global environment is the greatest threat to human existence ever seen. The devastating impacts of climate change, including the one million species facing extinction, melting glaciers, rising sea levels, increasing extreme weather events and associated emergencies, and the growing prevalence of food insecurity are harbingers of things to come and must compel us to act now to protect and preserve our environment. The most effective way to combat the climate crisis and create resiliency is to recognize the critical leadership role of First Nations and Indigenous Peoples and embrace our sacred relationship with Mother Earth. A relationship which is predicated upon traditional ways of knowing and living in harmony with nature, taking only what we need and leaving more for future generations. These are our sacred duties and shared responsibilities. Taking action to conserve and protect Mother Earth benefits us all. Turning these words into National Chief Bellegarde and Regional Chief Augustine take part in the opening ceremonies for the 2019 AFN AGA in Fredericton, NB.42 The Circle Winter Issue 1 2019'