This Land is your Land, This Land is my Land

Author

Louis Joseph
October 08, 2023

This Land is your Land

This Land is my Land

In a world increasingly struggling with environmental challenges, the wisdom of Native people offers profound lessons in sustainability and stewardship of the planet. For centuries, Native Tribes have cultivated a deep and harmonious relationship with the Earth. Our traditional knowledge and practices have not only sustained their communities but have valuable insights to offer the entire world.

 Understanding the Connection

Central to Native culture is the concept of interconnectedness, where humans are regarded as an integral part of nature, not separate from it. This worldview shapes our approach to land, resources, and the environment. Tribes recognize that the Earth provides for our physical and spiritual well-being, and they, we turn, have a responsibility to care for the land.

 Sustainable Resource Management

One of the most remarkable aspects of Tribal environmental stewardship is the sustainable resource management. Tribes like the Dine’ and Hopi have practiced dryland farming techniques for centuries, utilizing terraced fields and crop rotation to maximize crop yields while conserving soil and water. Similarly, the Iroquois Confederacy's "Three Sisters" agricultural system, which combines corn, beans, and squash, is not only efficient but also ecologically sound.

These practices are models of sustainability that we can learn from. In a world facing issues like soil depletion and water scarcity, adopting such time-tested techniques can help us mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure food security.

 Respect for Biodiversity

Natives have long held a reverence for biodiversity. Many tribes believe that all living beings have their place in the world, and each plays a vital role in the balance of nature. This respect for biodiversity is evident in our hunting and gathering practices, where we take only what is needed and leave no waste behind.

In today's world, the loss of biodiversity is a pressing concern. Tribal values of respect for all life forms can inspire us to protect and conserve the rich tapestry of species that share our planet. Our holistic approach recognizes that the health of ecosystems is interconnected with the health of humans.

 Traditional Ecological Knowledge

Tribes possess an abundance of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) passed down through generations. This knowledge encompasses not only agricultural techniques but also herbal medicine, weather forecasting, and habitat management. TEK is a testament to the power of historical wisdom in understanding and adapting to their local environments.

By embracing TEK and integrating it with modern science, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of ecological systems and develop innovative solutions to contemporary environmental challenges. Collaborative efforts between Tribal communities and scientists have already yielded valuable insights into sustainable land and water management.

 In Conclusion: Embracing Wisdom for a Sustainable Future

As we face a climate crisis and increasing environmental degradation, we can draw inspiration from the first guardians of North America. By learning from Native cultures and incorporating our sustainable practices into everyone’s modern lives, we can work towards a more harmonious and sustainable future for all of humanity and the planet we share. It is our responsibility to embrace the wisdom of those who have long been stewards of the Earth and to collectively strive for a world in which nature and people coexist in harmony once more.

If you don’t know, now you know, a Native.

Operation not Forgotten

The urgent effort, deemed Operation Not Forgotten, involved dozens of special agents, intelligence analysts, and professional staff spanning out to reservations across 10 US states.

Death and sex violence cases

Working with tribal law enforcement, the FBI surge teams conducted hundreds of witness and victim interviews, addressing more than 200 cases involving primarily women and children who had been victims of violent crime, officials said.

"The main focus of our cases were death investigations and sexual abuse crimes," said FBI Section Chief Jonathan Tapp, who helped oversee the operation.

"Those agents respond to scenes, they process evidence, they arrest subjects and interview witnesses," said Tapp. "Simultaneously our intelligence personnel are ... locating information, processing leads, and determining locations of additional victims."

Tapp said the FBI surge resulted in the launching of 40 arrest and search operations, and the identification of four children who had been victims of crimes previously unknown to law enforcement.

"We also recovered one child who had been reported missing during this effort to help our Tribal communities," said Tapp.

Heartbreaking crimes

In addition to the FBI operational teams making arrests and gathering intelligence, another group operated behind the scenes: the FBI's Victim Services Division.

Formed in 2001, the team of victim specialists routinely deploys to critical incidents across the country aiding victims with crisis intervention support, emergency travel, and assistance in obtaining counseling and housing.

In Operation Not Forgotten, FBI victim advocates with specialized training in the cultural sensitivities of Indigenous communities engaged with Native crime victims to make them aware of their rights under the law and the numerous resources offered to aid in their healing, officials said.

"Victim specialists engage one on one with victims, our Tribal partners and the community to resolve cases of murdered and missing Native persons -- women and children especially," said Tapp, and "are present to see the closure, albeit heartbreaking at times."

❝

Each one of these people on this list has a story

FBI Agent Ryan Summers

Not enough attention

Advocates have long insisted cases of missing and murdered Native Americans do not receive the attention they deserve from police and the press.

"The missing and murdered Indigenous people’s crisis is centuries in the making, and it will take a focused effort and time to unravel the many threads that contribute to the alarming rates," said Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland last year.

The crisis of missing persons on Tribal lands spurred the FBI into action, enlisting the agency's intelligence resources best known for fighting crime and terrorism to create a master database of missing Natives.

"Each one of these people on this list has a story," said FBI Supervisory Intelligence Analyst Ryan Summers. "We'd like to be able to have a positive resolution for as many of these family members as we possibly can."

The database includes photos of the missing along with their age, gender and date of last contact. Officials said their hope is it leads to more tips and leads from the public.

Navajo Nation police officials partnering with federal law enforcement said they face a number of challenges, including limited evidence in tribal communities and families who may not be comfortable talking to police.

Despite the challenges, the FBI said it will continue to devote significant resources to solving crimes on tribal lands.

"It's a priority because all people matter," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda. "Native Americans, everywhere we go, they are embedded in the fabric of who we are as a society.

Sharice Davids - Ho-Chunk

Sharice Davids, born on May 22, 1980, in Frankfurt, West Germany, is a trailblazing figure in American politics and a dedicated advocate for her community. Her journey from a childhood on military bases to becoming one of the first Native women elected to the United States Congress is a testament to her resilience and commitment to public service.

Growing up as the daughter of a single mother who served in the United States Army, Davids learned the values of discipline, hard work, and community early in life. Her family's dedication to service and their Native heritage instilled in her a strong sense of duty and a desire to make a positive impact on the world.

She pursued higher education at Cornell Law School and later worked as a lawyer and mixed martial artist. Her experience as a professional athlete exemplified her determination and tenacity, qualities that would serve her well in the political arena.

In 2018, she made history when she was elected as the U.S. Representative for Kansas’s 3rd congressional district. Her victory not only marked her as one of the first Native American women to serve in Congress but also represented a groundbreaking moment for LGBT representation, as she is an openly gay woman.

As a member of Congress, Davids has been a tireless advocate for a wide range of issues, including healthcare access, economic opportunity, and social justice. Her commitment to bipartisanship and pragmatic problem-solving has earned her respect from colleagues on both sides of the aisle.

Davids has also been a vocal advocate for Native rights and has worked to address issues such as tribal sovereignty, healthcare disparities, and the protection of Native lands. Her unique perspective as a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation informs her approach to policy and legislation.

Her journey from military bases to the halls of Congress is a powerful example of the American dream in action. Her career serves as a reminder that diversity, representation, and a commitment to service are essential for building a more equitable and inclusive society.

In a time when the political landscape is evolving, she stands as a symbol of progress, resilience, and the limitless potential of individuals to create meaningful change.

This section as always is brought to you by the Kossin Brand. The purpose of the Kossin brand is to connect our people through inclusivity and commonalities. Many other brands and companies aim to divide and conquer, however at Kossin they do not. If you enjoy this section and being introduced to a new Native every week please click the “Shop Here” button below and support them by picking up a piece of Kossin Merch.

If you enjoy our memes don’t forget to follow on Twitter now known as X.com, Instagram and Tik Tok for more exclusive content. The profile links are listed below. @LouistheNative on all platforms.

LINKS

The next time you’re in the San Diego area and looking for an all-inclusive stay and play experience, look no further than Viejas Casino and Resort.

Embark on an exhilarating gaming journey as you explore their expansive selection of the latest and greatest slot machines, boasting an impressive array of 2,500 on the gaming floor. Their collection spans a multitude of themes, each offering its own unique charm. From bonus rounds that promise extra rewards, to free spins that keep the excitement flowing. Fortunes await those who dare to spin.

For those who crave more than the whims of chance, their meticulously designed gaming tables beckon. Discover classics like blackjack, poker, roulette, craps, and baccarat, each a masterpiece of skill and strategy. Engage in exhilarating battles of wits as you take on fellow players or challenge the house itself. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice looking to test your skill, their tables offer a thrilling blend of competition and entertainment.

For our cherished Aunties, armed with their lucky daubers and an unwavering passion for Bingo, Viejas Casino presents an extraordinary haven of possibilities. Within their welcoming walls, they offer a Bingo experience that stands out as a true gem, where fortune may just grace you with a remarkable victory.

After a long day of winning, you’re going to need somewhere to rest your head and count your money. Lucky for you, Viejas has you covered.  Take your pick from three hotel towers totaling just under 400 rooms, half of them being deluxe, the other half being suites, all of them being luxurious.  

Are you overdue for some much-needed retail therapy? Then you’re in luck. Directly across the street you’ll find the Viejas Retail Outlets.

Elevate your fitness game, without emptying your wallet at the Nike store. You'll find premium sportswear, from workout essentials to sporty fashion. Get your game on, style up, and save big.

Then, immerse yourself in the world of Michael Kors, where luxury meets affordability. Shop for the ultimate fashion-forward experience and discover the beauty of high-quality craftsmanship.

Finally, complete your San Diego vacation with a visit to Sunglass Hut! Whether you're strolling along the iconic Pacific Beach Boardwalk or reflecting off the bright casino lights, make sure you're rocking the hottest sunglasses in town.

The Viejas Outlets– where every shopping trip is a win!

REFER TO A FRIEND TO EARN FREE STUFF—————-REFER REFER REFER

If you want a chance to earn some free merch and perks, simply share the newsletter by using the embedded links below. It costs nothing to spread the word to your family, friends and colleagues. As always, we absolutely appreciate the support from our readers and love to reward them respectfully.

Simply Press the “Click to Share” Button Below, Then Press Copy, and send your code via text message, dm on facebook, instagram or your social media platform of choice.

.