Paper short abstract:

Indigenous peoples’ relationships with landscapes integrate dynamic cultural and ecological elements. Discussing Dasiqox Nexwagwez?an (Tsilhqot'in Tribal Park) we explore how cultural and ecological elements are inseparable, and how Indigenous-led initiatives honour those integrated relationships.

Paper long abstract:

Indigenous peoples’ relationships with places, landscapes, waters, animals and plants integrate dynamic cultural, ecological, and spiritual elements. The core elements, drivers, and goals that characterize Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA) initiatives therefore inherently differ from most conventional 20th Century epistemological and protected area frameworks that separate cultural and ecological values. Dasiqox Nexwagwez?an (Tsilhqot’in Tribal Park established by Xeni Gwet’in and Yunesit’in communities in western Canada) is one example of how an Indigenous-led protected area initiative is not only an assertion of inherent jurisdiction and title, but also a creative, proactive process for revitalizing culture by healing landscapes and people in relationship with each other. What is being protected? Dasiqox aims to create and protect space for Tsilhqot’in lived relationships with nenqay. We discuss three aspects of Dasiqox Nexwagwez?an: 1) the ways in which cultural landscapes, knowledge and language are inseparable from ecological systems; 2) the creative approach and methodologies we are taking to Indigenous-led planning; and 3) the ways in which individual team members navigate, adapt, and grow in our roles, embodying and contributing to reconciliation.