CLIMATE REPORTER STORIES

Mary Cathleen Wilson, MA, a Tohono O’odham tribal member from Cedagĭ Wahia (Green Well), Sonora, Mexico, and Topowa, AZ, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to promoting climate change literacy. As a former Visiting-Editor, and Tribal Liaison for the USEPA’s Office of Pesticides-Toxics/Tribal News, she has a rich background in political science and American Indian Studies from the University of Arizona, providing her with a deep understanding of the complexities facing Indigenous communities. In her public health roles, she has orchestrated multifaceted interventions to combat cancer and cardiovascular diseases among tribal members with diabetes, fostering holistic wellness within the Tohono O’odham community. Through her extensive work in research and advocacy, Mary has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to empowering tribal communities and safeguarding their cultural heritage. As a Tohono O’odham traditional potter, she believes that climate change advocacy is crucial for protecting and preserving the environments and traditions integral to the identities and livelihoods of Indigenous communities.

Gina McGuire is an ʻŌiwi (Native Hawaiian) woman, born and raised on Hawaiʻi Island. She is currently a PhD candidate at the University of Hawaiʻi in Geography & Environment, an eco-cultural researcher on a decision support tool project with the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, and a climate reporter with Native Climate at DRI. Her research has focused on coastal spaces and Hawaiian healing practice, lāʻau lapaʻau. She holds an MS in Tropical Conservation Biology & Environmental Science and an MA in Creative Writing. She is excited to bring these two passions together for Native Climate.

Andra Hawk-Valdez (Tehila Pi Win-He Loves Her Woman) is Hunkpapa Lakota from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and grew up in Wakpala, SD. She lives in Ethete, WY on the Wind River Indian Reservation with her husband Robert and family. She is the mother of five children and grandmother of two grandchildren. Andra is currently pursuing her Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction through Sitting Bull College. She received her Bachelor of General Studies degree from the University of Wyoming in 2021. She is currently a climate reporter for the DRI Native Climate Internship program. She has a passion to become a published writer of stories, short stories, and/or poetry through Indigenous history, culture, and knowledge. Andra lives by the teachings and values her parents instilled in her as a Lakota and being a good relative. She looks forward to learning about writing, bringing Indigenous knowledge forward about our climate, and sharing what she learns through the educational platform.

Bio coming soon.