The Summit was hosted by the Pala Band of Mission Indians’ Tribal Climate Health Project.

From hazardous air to uncertain water supply, U.S. Tribes have been increasingly and disproportionately affected by more intense wildfire, drought, and heat resulting from a changing climate. Many Tribes are not just planning but acting in real-time to protect the health and well-being of their community. This Summit brought together experts and practitioners in Tribal health and climate adaptation to explore emerging and successful strategies that address the physical, mental, socioeconomic, cultural, and spiritual health and well-being of Tribes. Building upon knowledge gained during the 2022 and 2023 Summits, which aimed to help Tribes identify their unique climate and health vulnerabilities and develop plans, this year’s Summit turned our attention to the next step in adaptation: taking action, with a focus specifically on wildfire, drought, and heat.

Throughout this two-day training, Tribal-serving professionals working at the intersection of climate change, health, and community well-being participated in interactive instruction and peer-to-peer learning activities that built knowledge about developing, implementing, and evaluating adaptation plan strategies that safeguard Tribal health and are rooted in traditional knowledge and values. Organizers, guest speakers, and attendees were invited to share recent findings, successful practices, and resources increasing Tribal resilience to various climate exposures throughout the US.  Spaces were curated to help attendees reflect individually and connect. The summit will also recognize Tribes for significant progress in championing climate and health adaptation.

Attendees:  

• Gained greater knowledge and understanding of how tribes are affected by and address impacts associated with wildfire, drought, and heat
• Built knowledge of best practices, options, and examples related to gathering and weaving together data, traditional knowledge, and community perspectives, managing interdepartmental coordination, and reporting findings
• Deepened their understanding of the linkages between health and climate change, including emerging research topics
• Participated in peer discussions to exchange knowledge and experiences
• Engage in guided sessions that promote personal connection and reflections