

219: Unabridged Interview: Melina Laboucan-Massimo
Jul 25, 2025
Melina Laboucan-Massimo, a Lubicon Cree activist and founder of Indigenous Climate Action, shares her journey of advocating for climate justice and Indigenous rights. She reflects on the resilience required in the fight against colonialism and resource extraction, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge. Melina also discusses her path to recovery from health challenges while maintaining her activism. The conversation touches on the significant impact of environmental issues on communities and the necessity for accountability in resource extraction practices.
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Balance Fuels Perseverance
- Find balance within body, mind, and spirit to sustain long-term perseverance and avoid burnout.
- Think of balance as essential for longevity in activism and social justice work.
Wildfires and Health Crisis
- Breathing wildfire smoke led Melina to develop severe bronchitis and become bedridden for four months.
- This painful experience forced her to reconsider her pace and approach to activism.
Indigenous Balance and Reciprocity
- Indigenous knowledge centers on balance and reciprocity with Mother Earth, never taking more than needed and giving back.
- Thousands of years of observation inform stewardship of delicate ecosystems within Indigenous science.