Projects

Decolonizing Conservation: Conservation has a colonial history and legacy of dispossession, eviction, and exclusion that marginalized Indigenous communities and their knowledge systems. Our work informs practitioners, scholars, and students of this history, highlighting the critical importance of integrating diverse cultural perspectives and practices in conservation strategies. By recognizing historical injustices and advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples, we aim to transform conservation into a more equitable and inclusive discipline. This approach not only seeks to restore ecosystems but also to empower communities, fostering a deeper connection between people and their environments for a more just and sustainable future.

Decolonizing Fisheries Governance: Modern fisheries governance has a colonial history and legacy of dispossession, eviction, and exclusion that continues to shape the lives of marginalized communities today. The systemic inequalities rooted in these historical practices not only affect access to resources but also undermine traditional ecological knowledge that has been cultivated over generations. Feminist Earthway’s work exposes and interrogates colonial practices that perpetuate these injustices, particularly in U.S. fisheries governance and destructive trawl fisheries. By advocating for inclusive policy frameworks that honor Indigenous rights, we seek to dismantle harmful paradigms and ensure that all voices are included in the decision-making processes. This approach not only promotes social justice but also contributes to the sustainability of marine ecosystems, highlighting the need for a radical shift towards more equitable governance models that respect and integrate the wisdom of local communities.

Access, Equity, and Inclusion in the Outdoors: Being outdoors provides health and wellbeing benefits that are well documented, including improved mental health, physical fitness, and enhanced social connections. However, access and inclusion in the outdoors does not reach all U.S. citizens in the same way, creating a significant disparity in who gets to enjoy these benefits. Our work shows how minoritized identities, such as women and people of color, face barriers to outdoor recreation, specifically angling, that others do not have to face. These barriers can include lack of representation, limited access to resources, and even cultural biases that discourage participation in outdoor activities. It is essential to identify and dismantle these obstacles to ensure that all communities can fully engage with nature and enjoy its myriad advantages. Enabling equitable access not only enriches individual lives but also strengthens community bonds and fosters a diverse stewardship of the outdoor spaces we cherish.

Engaging Youth of Color in Wildlife Conservation: Engaging youth of color in conservation and recreation better situates them to feel like they belong in conservation careers and become stewards of wildlife conservation and natural resources. By actively involving these communities in hands-on projects, mentorship programs, and outdoor experiences, we can cultivate a deeper connection to nature and inspire a sense of responsibility toward the environment. Moreover, by providing opportunities for leadership and education, we empower young individuals to voice their perspectives and actively participate in decision-making processes related to conservation efforts. This inclusive approach not only enhances the effectiveness of conservation initiatives but also fosters a more diverse and vibrant community invested in preserving our planet’s vital ecosystems for future generations.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agencies: Lack of access and inclusion in the outdoors is said to reflect the lack of diversity of agencies managing recreation on public lands. Our work shows how agencies need to better represent the broader public interest, which is increasingly diverse and conservation-oriented. To achieve this, it is crucial for these agencies to actively engage with various communities and foster partnerships that encompass a wide range of perspectives and experiences. By incorporating voices from underrepresented groups, the agencies can enhance their policies, outreach, and programs, ultimately creating a more inclusive environment. Increasing awareness and support for diverse initiatives can ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to enjoy the natural resources and recreational activities available, promoting stewardship and appreciation of the environment for generations to come.