Denver’s 3rd Fall Tribal Convening Focuses on Climate Resiliency

Denver's 3rd Fall Tribal Convening Focuses on Climate Resiliency

Published on November 17, 2025

As climate change reshapes our world, Denver is turning to some of its oldest wisdom to build a more resilient future. Incorporating Indigenous stewardship and ecological knowledge is vital to Denver's climate efforts. That's why Denver's Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency (CASR) partners with Tribal and Indigenous communities to find ways to adapt to a changing environment. In 2025, CASR hosted the city's 3^rd Annual Fall Tribal Convening to continue relationship-building and work with community members.

Why Indigenous Knowledge Matters

Denver is home to the descendants of over 100 tribal nations. Indigenous communities have a deep understanding of the city's ecosystems, natural resources and resilience practices built over generations. By including Indigenous voices and knowledge, we aim to create a shared approach to using these practices for environmental care and addressing climate change.

What Happened at the Convening

Over three days, more than 160 attendees participated in panel discussions, Q&A sessions and interactive workshops. Attendees included Tribal citizens, community leaders, elders and youth from local and regional areas. Tribal Elder Rick W. stated, "Our people have been coming to this area and gathering and intersecting and interacting in positive and influential ways for thousands of years. So, it's really important that it's happening again. It's exciting that it's happening again." The convening addressed:

• Topics Related to Resiliency
• Indigenous Stewardship
• Education
• Cultural Awareness

The convening took place at different locations, including Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver Indian Center and National Western Center CSU Spur.

Key Takeaways

A key focus of the convening was education. Tribal experts shared their traditional knowledge and information. Experts discussed how we connect with the land, people, animals, and the environment.

Highlights include a Mycelium healing workshop that was led by Indigenous youth from Spirit of the Sun. The interactive workshop helped show the process of restoring soils damaged by pollutants. Agriculture Lead Buho says, "The Mycelium Healing Project is a micro remediation project that we do here at Spirit of the Sun. We hope to use it as a bridge between land, health, and community."

Looking Ahead

This convening not only empowered local Tribal and Indigenous voices but also paved the way for a more sustainable, resilient future for all. It brought together traditional practices, built strong connections and improved relationships within communities.

Everyone deserves protection from the effects of climate change. To achieve this, the city prioritizes engaging all Denverites to be a part of climate solutions. This convening is one of many ways Denver is working with communities to develop impactful strategies to help our city adapt to climate change through our policies, programs and partnerships. See how else CASR is building a resilient city for all Denverites.

• Press release
• Sustainability