The Indigenous Youth Ocean Congress (IYOC) is a dynamic movement led by Indigenous youth dedicated to recognizing the Ocean as a living relative, not merely a resource. Rooted in Indigenous law, traditional knowledge, and cultural heritage, the Congress empowers youth to amplify their voices in global conversations about Ocean protection and climate justice.

Facing unprecedented threats from industrial activities such as offshore energy extraction and deep-sea mining that endanger marine ecosystems and Indigenous coastal communities, the IYOC provides a vital platform for youth leadership. Over a 12-month program, Ocean Ambassadors from Turtle Island are trained to advocate for Indigenous stewardship and the rights of the Ocean through storytelling, law, science, art, and global advocacy.

Supported by Dreamstarter Gold, the initiative fosters leadership through community projects and culminates at Climate Week 2026 in New York City. There, Indigenous youth will launch the Indigenous Youth Declaration for the Rights of the Ocean, a powerful Indigenous-led intervention demanding global Ocean protection.

Indigenous youth passionate about protecting the Ocean are invited to join this transformative movement, receive updates, and become Ocean Ambassadors representing Indigenous knowledge on the world stage. For more information, they can visit the official event webpage at https://www.earthlawcenter.org/iyoc.