Indigenous leaders, activists in Paris for climate change talks

He's also had the opportunity to speak with Canadian premiers and federal officials who are in attendance.

Bellegarde saidindigenous people could help shape Canada's environmental policies and guide society's move toward renewable energy and green technology, which are in tune with indigenous philosophies of caring for the earth.

"[Indigenous peoples] are a vital part of the solution, even though we have not been part of the problem," Bellegarde says.

There's also a coterie of indigenous environmental activists in France for the summit, including Erica Violet Lee. The Creestudent from University of Saskatchewanispart of a group called the Canadian Youth Delegation.

Lee created a bit of a stir when she posted a photograph on Twitter, showing her making a face with Saskatchewan premier Brad Wall in the background.

This photo of @EricaVioletLee and @PremierBradWall at #COP21. #cdnpoli #climatechange #yxe #skpoli pic.twitter.com/wN4KVQs9rz

—@MorganM_SP

Lee defended the move on Facebook.

"I don't have a chance in hell at taking on the power, privilege, and resources of governments and corporations," she wrote. "But because I am privileged enough to be here, I will fight not to be invisible, using the few pathways available to me."

Outside the summit, indigenous activists have already gathered and are trying to have their voices heard too. This could prove tricky, since there's actually a ban on protests in the wake of the Paris attacks.

One of the largest and most organized groups, the Indigenous Environmental Network, has already held a sunriseceremonyon the streets of Paris and the group isplanning more events and demonstrations during COP21.