Outside/In A Map to the Next World
Jul 16, 2025
Joseph Lee, an Aquinnah Wampanoag writer and freelance climate and indigenous affairs reporter, brings a unique perspective to the conversation. He discusses the rich diversity of Native American identities and the vital yet complex stories that media often overlook. Lee shares his experiences covering climate change impacts on Indigenous communities, including the Shoshone’s land restoration efforts and the contentious Donlan Goldmine Project. He emphasizes the importance of mapping a hopeful future while navigating the challenges of identity and environmental resilience.
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Shoshone Land Reclamation Journey
- The Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation bought back land at the Bear River Massacre site for healing and restoration.
- They are removing invasive trees and restoring native trees to return billions of gallons of water annually to the Great Salt Lake.
Complexity of Land Back
- Indigenous land management is often better for environment recovery.
- However, tribes’ choices for land use may conflict with external environmental expectations.
Contested Alaska Goldmine Conflict
- The Donlan Goldmine project in Alaska deeply divides indigenous communities.
- Alaska Native Corporation Chalista supports it for economic growth, but some tribal members oppose it for environmental harm.