This EarthSayers Radio interview features videographer Barry Heidt discussing his upcoming three-week journey to Ecuador. Beginning February 2, 2013, Heidt will interview indigenous leaders who

This EarthSayers Radio interview features videographer Barry Heidt discussing his upcoming three-week journey to Ecuador. Beginning February 2, 2013, Heidt will interview indigenous leaders who speak on behalf of Mother Earth. He plans to collaborate with David Tucker, director of Pachamama Journeys for the Pachamama Alliance, and Natalia Greene, director of Fundación Pachamama's Rights of Nature program.

Images illustrating Barry's story are sourced from the Pachamama Alliance and Rights of Nature websites, as well as the EarthDay 2012 Conference. Individuals and organizations interested in collaborating with or supporting Barry Heidt's journey can contact him directly at 541-992-4230.

Sustainability Action Media (SAM) documented the 2012 Earth Day Conference, sponsored by the Earth & Spirit Council. Videotaped by Tom Hopkins and Barry Heidt of SAM, the event featured an elders

Sustainability Action Media (SAM) documented the 2012 Earth Day Conference, sponsored by the Earth & Spirit Council. Videotaped by Tom Hopkins and Barry Heidt of SAM, the event featured an elders and youth panel.

The panel explored the central topic: "What gives us hope and heart to keep working on what is best for our Earth in the face of difficult changes?" The evening closed with song, drumming, and celebration.

This excerpt, titled "Hope and Heart to Keep on Working on Behalf of Earth," highlights the discussion on hope, featuring Larry Merculieff, Barbara Ford, and Duane Elgin.

Linda Neale of the Earth & Spirit Council, author of "Power of Ceremony," addressed the EarthDay Conference 2012. Co-sponsored by

Linda Neale of the Earth & Spirit Council, author of "Power of Ceremony," addressed the EarthDay Conference 2012. Co-sponsored by the Council and Portland Community College, the event also featured Ilarion (Larry) Merculieff. Born and raised on the Pribilof Islands, Merculieff's traditional name, Kuuyux, signifies "extension of ancient knowledge into modern times."

Neale's book, "Power of Ceremony," is available for purchase. Additionally, Michael TwoFeather's teaching on the same topic is featured on Earthsayers, presented by The Natural Way of the Earth & Spirit Council.

Ilarion (Larry) Merculieff, an author and native community connector, has dedicated nearly four decades to serving

Ilarion (Larry) Merculieff, an author and native community connector, has dedicated nearly four decades to serving the Aleuts of the Pribilof Islands and other indigenous peoples. His extensive experience includes leadership roles as City Manager of St. Paul Island, Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Commerce and Economic Development, and CEO of Tanadgusix Corporation.

Merculieff also chaired The Aleut Corporation and managed the Central Bering Sea Fishermen's Association. As Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for the Rural Alaska Community Action Program, he notably led Alaska's largest subsistence rights march.

This excerpt features an interview with Larry Merculieff (Aleut) from the Native Perspectives on Sustainability project (