Historically, Indigenous groups were deprived access to their ancestral lands, and often their livelihoods. A lack of resources, combined with the deathly toll of diseases from the “Old World” continues to haunt people today, as an indigenous person is three times more likely to be in poverty than any other ethnic group, and earn on average 18% less than their counterparts due to racism and discrimination. These bleak statistics become worse, for indigenous women are unable to find work if they need it, and also struggle with higher rates of sexual abuse and infant mortality. When considering solutions to such issues, ponder ways that tribes and families could be compensated, indigenous students could receive a proper education, and to legalize policy which will protect these rights.

The changing world order has constantly put the needs of indigenous people aside, from forced relocations in North America and Europe to complete social hegemony in South America, Africa, and Asia. Pieces of culture are lost to time as language, traditions, and families were destroyed. In order to curb these losses, consider solutions for preservation of endangered indigenous languages and oral histories, mainstreaming and immortalizing their prominent figures and traditions, increasing representation of these ethnic groups in government, and support groups for those in financial/emotional distress.

Sreemayi Gangireddy is a junior at Maggie Walker, and is thrilled to be one of your co-chairs for the PFII this year! She has participated in GSMUN since sophomore year. She finds debating current issues an incredibly fun and productive way to procrastinate homework! Outside of Model UN, Sreemayi participates in FRC Robotics, is a National Officer for the Technology Student Association (TSA), plays on the MW Girls Basketball team, and writes for the MW school newspaper. In her free time, you can find her playing the viola, listening to Bollywood music or hiking with family! Sreemayi can’t wait to get to know each of you delegates at GSMUN XXVI!

Anusha Rathi is a junior at Maggie Walker and is so thrilled to be your chair for PFII! She has been participating in GSMUN since freshman year and is an active member of the Model UN Club. She absolutely loves learning about international issues, writing about them, and discovering more about the world. Besides Model UN, Anusha is an active player on the Maggie Walker Golf Team, deputy editor of the MW school newspaper, The Jabberwock, and a dedicated member of Technology Student Association (TSA). Anusha is so excited to see what debates you all will come up with in GSMUN XXVI!