Indigenous Populations
Native peoples whose ancestral ties to a place predate the formation of modern nations. In the U.S., this includes federally recognized tribes, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians.
Related terms
Tribal Populations Members of federally or state-recognized Native American tribes. Tribal lands are subject to a unique mix of federal, tribal, and sometimes state environmental jurisdiction. Environmental Justice The principle that all people, regardless of race or income, deserve equal protection from environmental hazards and equal access to a healthy environment. Overburdened Community A term officially adopted by the EPA and state governments to describe minority, low-income, tribal, or indigenous populations that experience a disproportionate amount of environmental harm and health risk compared to the general population.