“We, Elders, assert that rivers are living beings and the lifeblood of culture and community. We have documented severe decline tied to cotton, irrigation, chemicals, dams, and governance failures. We call for First Nations led action to restore flowing, habitable rivers, protect the aquifers, the special cultural places and the living beings of the river, and to hold governments and industry accountable.
Being daughters of the river, Elder Women stand up to reclaim their rights to speak for water on Country as it is our obligation under cultural law with the recognition that the rivers are living parts of the Mother that we inherited and must ensure is in good condition for future generations.”
