Snow leopards are more than just special animals to protect—they are sacred relatives to many Indigenous communities across Inner and Central Asia. The Land of Snow Leopard Network (LOSL), founded in 2013, works to empower Indigenous Peoples to protect snow leopards and their ecosystems while preserving cultural traditions. Snow leopards are seen as guardians of sacred mountains, sources of wisdom, and a powerful unifying force in ancient traditions. LOSL unites Indigenous communities, local groups, and Western conservation scientists across Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, and the Russian Federation, making sure that snow leopard conservation is driven by both ecological science and Traditional Indigenous (Ecological) Knowledge.
Our work is deeply spiritual and holistic, recognizing the interconnectedness of all animals, sacred lands, and sacred waters worldwide. By supporting Indigenous efforts in North America to protect sacred totemic animals like Chinook salmon, orca whales, and buffalo, we are also protecting snow leopards. All of these beings are connected, and their survival depends on the health of the Earth as a whole. Our cultural survival is inseparable from the survival of our sacred animals. That is why LOSL is deeply committed to raising the next generation of Indigenous conservation and cultural leaders.
In this webinar, we are excited to share our groundbreaking collaborations with Indigenous communities in North America. In particular, we will highlight the participation of LOSL youth wing members in Run4Salmon, a powerful journey organized by the Winnemem Wintu tribe, a powerful example of how Indigenous youth across continents are coming together to protect sacred species and ecosystems. Through these efforts, we are building lasting connections, restoring balance, and keeping Traditional Indigenous Knowledge alive.