Indigenous Peoples-Impact Investing
Indigenous peoples hold 20% of the earth’s land mass. That land harbors 80% of the world’s remaining biodiversity. According to the United Nations, in the world, there are approximately 400 million Indigenous people. They total close to 6% of the world’s population, inhabiting over 90 different countries and representing 90% of cultural diversity. If taken together Indigenous peoples comprise one of the largest minority groups in the world.
Indigenous peoples, historically, maintain a close relationship with the earth through their traditions and principles which are dedicated to the preservation of life on this planet for generations to come.
The United Nations in 2007 established the universal Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples which was adopted by the General Assembly. With this declaration and other significant events, Indigenous peoples are gaining economic and political power that they deserve. For too long their lands have been taken from them; they have suffered violence; poverty; the destruction of their cultures; and other injustices.
The policy of many world governments has been to make Indigenous peoples invisible. Over the years this policy has changed or is changing in many countries. Indigenous peoples are being seen as partners. The values and traditions of Indigenous peoples are in great harmony with the goals of respect for the earth and tackling the issues of climate change.
Tribal communities have invested heavily in solar energy and working in partnership with various investors to promote solar energy. Indigenous peoples have much to contribute to our understanding and value of the earth.
Indigenous communities have banded together to enter the world in investing-especially impact investing. Raven Indigenous Capital Partners is the first private indigenous led and owned impact investment fund. It invests in technology, clean energy, sustainable food systems and natural products. 50% of the founding members are women. This fund is both in Canada and the United States of America. As one representative of Raven Indigenous Capital stated: we should be investing in companies or funds which reflect our values. Indigenous communities are dedicated to preserving the whole of life on this planet for generations to come. Is this not a prime value many of us desire?
Ann Kasparek