Local teens chosen for climate congress

Two Passamaquoddy teenagers from Pleasant Point have been chosen to attend the 2016 Inter-Tribal Youth Climate Leadership Congress (ITYCLC) from July 5 through July 12 in Shepardstown, Va.
Shead High School freshman C.J. Francis and Washington Academy junior Jaiden Veal, as well as Indian Township representatives Logan Barnes, Wade Lola and Laura Socobasin, will be joining students from across the country to tackle climate change and related environmental issues affecting Native people.
The ITYCLC develops future conservation leaders with the skills, knowledge and tools to address climate change and conservation challenges to better serve their schools and home communities. The 100 students were chosen because of their interest in environmental issues, natural resource conservation, community leadership and public service.
The conference will also be an opportunity to learn and demonstrate leadership and communications skills to engage with peers and home communities about climate change.
"It was for juniors, but I though I'd give it a shot," says Francis of his decision to apply for the opportunity to attend the ITYCLC. "I thought some might back out, and I want to be as educated as possible in the field of climate change."
"It's up to us to take care of Mother Earth. Around here the sea level is rising as it gets warmer in the Antarctic. Pleasant Point and Eastport are surrounded by water, so we would start to get flooded."
"My culture depends on the fish, and the warming waters will affect that," he stresses. "The tribe has a maple syrup business in Jackman, and sap requires freezing nights."
"The higher the temperature, the more like Mexico we'd be. There's a potential for a high rate of diseases and affecting the breathing of older people. Elders are very important," he adds.
Jaiden Veal is the other student from Pleasant Point chosen to attend ITYCLC. She says she is looking forward to the experience "since youth my age are going to be there. It's a great opportunity to learn together."
"In general, the blueberry season has been affected by rising temperatures, as well as the spawning of salmon. Because temperatures are getting a lot warmer, it negatively affects the apples and the other produce in general."
"I want to be a leader in my community," she goes on. "I want to make an impact if any changes are needed."
The Passamaquoddy contingent from Washington County will include chaperons Arron and Maggie Dana, and the ITYCLC will conclude with a guided educational overnight trip to Washington, D.C., which includes a visit to the National Museum of the American Indian.
The event is sponsored by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey and the Environmental Protection Agency.