Modeling Destination Stewardship Power Structures: From Historic Policies to Indigenous Futurities

This session explores the historical and contemporary power structures that have shaped the management of U.S. Parks and Protected Areas (PPAs) and the Indigenous futurities-based pathways toward more equitable and Indigenous-led management practices. Drawing on decolonial methodologies and Indigenous evaluation models, the discussion will highlight the barriers Indigenous Nations have historically and currently face in asserting sovereignty and how new frameworks can lead to Indigenous futures in PPA management that honor self-determination and knowledge systems.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the historical power structures and colonial policies that have governed U.S. Parks and Protected Areas and their impact on Indigenous Nations over time.

2. Understand the spectrum of power dynamics in PPA management through time and presently, from colonial paradigms to more equitable futures.

3. Identify barriers to Indigenous sovereignty and the marginalization of Indigenous Knowledge Systems within U.S. federal land management practices.

4. Examine the role of recent federal policies and collaborative frameworks in addressing these barriers and promoting Indigenous self-determination in land management while understanding the persistent colonial challenges.

Presenter:

• Dr. Lara Jacobs, Michigan State University