View over the ancient city of Teotihuacán in Mexico, once a thriving cultural and political center of Mesoamerica. ©marco ruiz/Flickr

by Carballo, Feinman & López Corral (2025)

Through historical and archaeological analysis, Carballo, Feinman, and López Corral trace the story of Mesoamerican cities, revealing how they grew, adapted, and endured through periods of profound change. Their study offers new perspectives on contemporary urban transitions, showing how lessons from Indigenous institutions, infrastructure, and socio-cultural practices can still guide effective spatial planning and governance today.

Connecting with nature is vital in times of biodiversity loss and climate change. Genuine partnerships with Indigenous communities are key to creating vibrant and resilient urban spaces. ©Erika Pearce/Flickr

by Walker et al. (2024)

Finding ways to connect with nature is more urgent than ever in times of biodiversity loss and climate change. This study by Walker et al. analysed over 200 surveys from Māori communities in Aotearoa ,New Zealand, to understand how cities can work hand in hand with Indigenous Peoples to strengthen their stewardship knowledge and practice. Their findings suggest that restoration activities require targeted approaches, rooted in genuine partnerships with local indigenous communities to create vibrant and livable urban spaces.

In Guatemala’s Polochic Valley, indigenous women are growing businesses, feeding families, and building resilience with UN support. ©UN Women/Ryan Brown/Flickr

by Akinkuolie et al. (2024)

Indigenous-led approaches are widely recognised for their role in helping cities to adapt to climate change and conserve biodiversity– but what about climate mitigation? Akinkuolie et al. conducted a meta-analysis of over 100 studies across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, looking specifically at climate mitigation measures that are informed by indigenous knowledge. The finding reveal strategies that are diverse, innovative, and span multiple sectors. Integrating these approaches into urban planning and public policy could provide a powerful pathway to reducing greenhouse gas emissions while respecting local knowledge systems.

Adivasi women dancing together in a circle. Adivasi are Indigenous peoples of India with diverse traditions and close ties to their ancestral lands. ©Tuhin Paul/ Flickr

by Kumar & Baraik (2024)

In the Eastern-Indian state of Jharkhand, many cities carry a distinct Indigenous character. Kumar and Baraik explore how indigeneity is both expressed and lived in urban spaces. Through a mixed-method, interdisciplinary approach, they examine the socio-spatial landscapes of these cities, revealing how identity, culture, and space interact to shape urban life.

by Tommy Orange

Set in Oakland, California, Tommy Orange’s acclaimed debut novel follows different characters as they navigate identity, community, and loss. It captures the ambivalent and complex experience of Indigenous Peoples in urban spaces.  While fictional, its unique storytelling draws readers into the topic in a vivid and gripping way.

edited by Dana Brablec and Andrew Canessa

Drawing on examples from across the globe, this collection explores the many ways Indigenous Peoples live and shape urban environments. It challenges the idea that Indigeneity is only “authentic” when rooted in remote, rural areas. The essays are a must-read for anyone curious about the living, evolving reality of Indigenous life in today’s cities.

a lecture by Dr. Heather Dorries

In this compelling lecture, Anishinaabe descendant and Assistant Professor Heather Dorries (University of Toronto) draws on examples from Tkaronto (Toronto) to unpack how Indigenous intellectual traditions expressed in art, cultural production and scholarship offer powerful tools to rethink the way we plan cities. Her reflections invite listeners to imagine alternative, more inclusive approaches that nurture the flourishing of all life.

an Exclusive Interview with Nigel Crawhall

What if the blueprint for fairer, healthier cities was already here – passed down through generations? In this UNESCO Talks episode  Nigel Crawhall, Chief of Section for Local and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (LINKS) at UNESCO, shares compelling stories and expert insights that reveal how Indigenous ways of knowing offer pathways toward a thriving planet and more just societies.

Step into a city and let its history speak to you. This beautifully crafted storytelling platform takes you on a personal journey through Canadian cities, guided by memories, connections, and perspectives of Indigenous residents. Every story adds a layer – personal, political, and deeply rooted in place – transforming the way you see the city around you.