by José Chalit Hernandez

Prior to the 19th century, these gentle giants roamed the Earth freely and abundantly, with population estimates ranging anywhere from 10 million to over 100 million at their peak. It’s harrowing to learn the history of how European settlers drove this species to near extinction; by 1889, only a few hundred remained. The extent of violence and thirst for power and conquest from European colonization knew no bounds. It’s hard to talk about these evils of colonization, imperialism, and its offshoots. But it’s necessary to recognize the wrongs of humanity and learn from the past if we want to build a better world for future generations.

I had a much needed moment of solace and reflection watching this herd of wild bison crossing the prairie one early spring morning. It was a quiet sunrise on the Wind River Reservation, next to my colleagues and friends Phillip Chavez and Evan Barrientos. We were invited along by Jason Baldes of the Intertribal Buffalo Council (ITBC), as Jason and Phillip have a long history as friends, and Evan had worked with Jason before. Check out the culturally and ecologically important work of the ITBC here: https://itbcbuffalonation.org/

It was the first time I'd been that close to an animal that large and so humbling in its natural habitat; you could feel the deep calm and almost hear the heartbeat of the Earth. I felt a mixture of gratitude and deep conflict. I imagined how this must have felt centuries ago. How it must have sounded and even smelled. I couldn’t help but also think of the immense struggle Indigenous people have gone through to restore this grand mammal back to its natural home.

Today there are various efforts and coalitions of Tribal and non-Tribal entities working to restore bison populations back to healthy numbers, which is truly amazing to see.

As I’ve learned more about bison and their historical (and present) importance to Indigenous peoples, I’ve come to know their story as a beautiful lesson in cultural strength and reverence for the Earth, while also a sobering reminder of the degree of violence the U.S. government has committed to Native Americans and beyond.

I am beyond grateful to be involved, even in a small way, in sharing Indigenous-led efforts to restore healthy and disease-free bison populations on their homelands. It is so humbling to bear witness to these efforts, as they also aim to restore human relationships to the Earth and heal generational trauma. 

Bison reintroduction is truly a pathway to learn about the interconnectedness of so many issues our world faces today. 

A recurring sentiment I’ve heard since being involved is how the way we see and treat our relationship to the Earth ultimately reflects the relationship we have to ourselves too: “If we take of the Earth, she will take care of us in return”. I will keep reflecting on this, and I hope you join TWP in continuing to foster symbiotic relationships with the Earth and with each other.