Energy Sovereignty Champion Award
Tribal Nation Award
Recognizes a tribal nation that is boldly advancing energy sovereignty through leadership, vision, and action.
Recognizing the Ones Who Are Getting It Done
The People of the Sun Honors recognize the tribal nations, leaders, innovators, and partners advancing energy sovereignty and climate solutions across Indian Country.
Every day, Indigenous communities are building solar projects, strengthening local energy systems, training future leaders, and protecting land and water for generations to come. Much of this work happens quietly, rooted in community and guided by Indigenous values.
The Honors exist to lift up that leadership and share these stories.
Presented during the People of the Sun gathering, the Honors celebrate impact, integrity, and Indigenous-led solutions shaping a more just and sustainable future.
What the Honors Represent:
Indigenous leadership at the forefront of climate and energy solutions
Community-driven action rooted in culture and care for the land
Innovation that strengthens sovereignty and resilience
Partnerships built on trust, reciprocity, and respect
Award Categories
Moccasins on the Ground Award
Emerging Indigenous Changemaker
Recognizes Indigenous leaders who have taken up responsibility for advancing change within their community.
Solar Warrior Teaching Award
Education & Workforce Leadership
Recognizes an individual or organization advancing education, training, and workforce development for Native communities.
Ally in Action Award
Celebrity / Public Figure / Cultural Leader
Recognizes a public figure who uses their platform to advance climate action and Indigenous leadership and who shows up in meaningful ways.
People of the Sun Trailblazer Award
Indigenous Leadership in Sovereignty & Systems Change
Recognizes an Indigenous leader advancing energy sovereignty and systems change at a regional, national, or institutional level.
Submit a Nomination
Nominations may be submitted by tribal members, community leaders, partners, organizations, or individuals who have witnessed this work firsthand. You may nominate a tribe, an individual, a team, or an organization, and self-nominations are welcome.
The People of the Sun Awards nomination process is intended to put people and achievements on our radar, not to require a full application or complete record.
We understand that many nominators may not know every detail of a tribe’s plans, an individual’s role, or the full scope of someone’s work. That is completely okay.
Please share whatever you know, in your own words. A few sentences or bullet points are more than enough. Additional information will be gathered later through the recognition and storytelling process if a nominee is selected.
Submissions are due by March 27, 2026.