Page 95 - EarthHeroes

against the actions of another. The Commission refused to hear the petition. However, Sheila was later invited to speak on behalf of Indigenous peoples at the IACHR’s first hearing on climate change and human rights in March 2007. Here, as well as describing the impact of climate change on Inuit, she spoke passionately about its effects on other Indigenous peoples around the world, including rising sea levels submerging their lands and the loss of water supplies due to disappearing glaciers.
Although unsuccessful, Sheila’s groundbreaking legal challenge did have an impact. Her speech led to a greater understanding of the effects of climate change on Indigenous peoples, and helped ensure that their needs and rights are considered when new international laws and agreements are created.
In recognition of her efforts, Sheila was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 and has won many awards for her activism for Inuit peoples. Perhaps her greatest success has been to show the human face of climate change in the Arctic – it’s not just about polar bears.
Sheila thinks Inuit are the world’s environmental early warning system and that if we protect their home, we will protect the whole planet. She remains hopeful that humanity can come together and act before it’s too late, by listening to the wisdom of people who have always lived in balance with nature.
Today, she lives near her daughter and grandsons, helping to raise them in her Inuit culture. And she continues to fight for their future. In 2008, the Canadian government made a formal apology for the way in which they had treated Indigenous children in the past. The girl
who almost lost her language is now the loudest voice speaking up for Inuit peoples, telling their stories to
touch hearts all over the world.
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