There are millions of indigenous peoples in the United States of America, each group with their own ways of life, enjoyments, and concerns. Indigenous peoples, like other U.S. citizens, experience issues stemming from water quality, water equity, and environmental changes due to climate change.
It has been found that there are 140 confirmed and 2,815 suspected PFAS contamination sources within five (5) miles of tribal land boundaries in the United States. This poses many problems, especially since Indigenous peoples are regularly left out of policy discussions and considerations.
An alarming 48% of Indigenous groups lack access to safe, clean water. PFAS contamination is linked to many serious health issues, like cancers, developmental harm to children, hormone imbalances, and elevated cholesterol. These threats impact everyone, but are increasingly concerning for Indigenous groups who depend on subsistence fishing, agriculture, and foraging.
More support for indigenous-led solutions is critical, as they know what they need and how solutions may make a lasting impact on their communities. The government, both local and federal, must listen to these voices and act accordingly.