This week, we’re proud to share that our Caring for Country lead, Lindsay Davies, a proud Guwamu/Kooma man from Meanjin, now living and working on Kombumerri Country, is on the ground in New York City, attending the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII), one of the most important international spaces for Indigenous voices and advocacy.
As Lindsay puts it; “A young Murri fella in the Big Apple! Never thought I’d be swapping red dirt for yellow cabs, but here I am in NYC getting ready for the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and feeling all kinds of grateful (and slightly jetlagged if I’m honest).”
Image: Lindsay Davies representing at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) in New York this month.
The UNPFII is a high-level advisory body to the UN Economic and Social Council, established in 2000, with a mandate to address Indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health, and human rights. Each year, it brings together Indigenous representatives, governments, and organisations from around the world to shape global dialogue, influence international policy, and create space for truth-telling and cultural strength.
It’s a powerful platform, and not an easy one to walk into. But Lindsay is showing up with heart, pride, and deep purpose.
“Massive love to Triballink and Project Access — especially Roberto Múkaro Agüeibaná Borrero, Rochelle Diver, and Tai Pelli. Your support, guidance, and humour have made this opportunity a whole lot more powerful. I can’t thank the Project Access team enough.”
Image: Lindsay Davies with members of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) in New York this month.
For Lindsay, this moment is not just personal, it’s collective.
“This past year has been a wild ride - from community to classrooms, dirt roads to digital futures. I know every step has been guided by the ones who walked before me. I’m following the path laid down by our staunch leaders and Ancestors, trying to keep the fire burning in my own way.”
The importance of this forum can’t be overstated. For too long, Indigenous peoples have been excluded from decision-making spaces that directly affect their lands, waterways, communities, and futures. The UNPFII provides a rare opportunity to connect with First Nations peoples from across the globe, share stories and strategies, and push for real accountability and lasting change on the world stage.
As Lindsay puts it, it is about showing the world what we’ve always known that we are still here, still deadly, and still leading. “Here’s to showing up, speaking up, and holding space. We’ve always been here, and we’re not going anywhere.” Lindsay said.
