This is The Way

In the early morning, we're preparing for an elk hunt on ancestral lands. Throughout our morning prayer, bull elk bugle in the background harmoniously marinating with the majestic views. Lingering questions run through my mind.  What will be the outcome of Indigenous traditions in the future, will it be ancient history, diminished, forgotten? This question has been endured by our ancestors, to the present day, and will certainly be a feat in the future.  

Decisions to eradicate indigenous peoples, steal land, then defile Mother Earth of her resources, has left chaos behind for others to deal with, such as: contaminated water systems, mismanaged lands and wildlife, and polluted air.  In lieu of these atrocities, unrighteous laws were developed which completely undermined all Indigenous values. Indigenous communities were displaced onto reservations, which resulted in culturally significant aboriginal lands sold off or converted into government lands that paved the way for these modern-day outcomes. It is important to repeat and understand the degree of oppression Indigenous peoples endured to greatly appreciate the vigilance of overcoming these inhumane adversities and hypocrisies.  

In today’s realm, Indigenous leadership, communities, and environmental professionals continue to battle these issues daily to ensure Indigenous sovereignty and livelihoods strive on. As a new member to TWP, there’s no better feeling than assisting Indigenous communities to persevere through the chaos and unrighteousness.  We are collaboratively working with Indigenous colleagues and supporters as we fight for Indigenous sovereignty rights; ensuring water systems are safe and clean, forest systems remain healthy and resilient to catastrophic wildfire; wildlife are healthy and abundant, protecting aboriginal lands; passing on cultural and traditional ecological knowledge, and creating or supporting self-sufficiency. 

Without the outstanding dedication and fortitude of water quality specialists, biologists, forestry, fire, and other professionals, Indigenous livelihoods may be in peril. Understanding and utilizing the interconnection of cultural and traditional ecological knowledge intertwines with Mother Earth and plays a vital role in assuring indigenous livelihoods are passed on from generation to generation. Continuing these traditions of hunting, gathering, and farming creates opportunities for aspiring farmers and chefs to bring back the healthy delicacies that flourish within Indigenous communities.   

As there is no end to the circle, the combination of these dignified livelihoods is a perfect example of why Indigenous peoples remain resilient and persevere to this day – an excellent answer to my question. Take to mind some simple words from a colleague, “I have learned your world, now come and learn mine”. 

Dr. Matthew Martinez, Exec. Dir., Mesa Prieta Petroglyph Project, former Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, Lt.  

Joseph Abeyta, Water Quality Specialist, Pueblo of Tesuque 

Ryan Swazo-Hinds, Biologist, Pueblo of Tesuque 

Ryan Taylor, Chef, Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo 

Joe Duran, Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, elder