Shift Key with Robinson Meyer and Jesse Jenkins How Julian Brave NoiseCat Changed His Mind About Climate Politics
14 snips
Oct 15, 2025 Julian Brave NoiseCat, a writer, Oscar-nominated filmmaker, and former climate organizer, shares insights from his new book, 'We Survived the Night.' He discusses the evolution of his views on climate politics, emphasizing the importance of persuasion over direct action. Julian illustrates how Native American stories, particularly coyote trickster narratives, connect personal and political history. He also delves into the complexities of Native identity, the dynamics of political recognition, and the challenges faced by Indigenous nations in environmental stewardship.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Bipartisan Leverage Of Native Politics
- Haaland's confirmation hinged on bipartisan factors like Alaska Native influence and Lisa Murkowski's ties to indigenous communities.
- Native political power often operates through local, bipartisan relationships rather than national visibility.
Pragmatic Bipartisanship In Indian Country
- Tribes often maintain bipartisan relationships: seek Democrats for services and Republicans for autonomy.
- This strategic pragmatism reflects colonial history and helps tribes preserve leverage in polarized politics.
Rainforest Guardians Revive Governance
- On Canada's west coast, nations hire guardians to protect rainforests and revive hereditary governance.
- These measures combine ancestral governance with modern climate stewardship to preserve carbon sinks.
