DCR First Peoples First Stewards Partnership

First Peoples First Stewards Partnership works to support Indigenous communities by enhancing communication, improving equity, and increasing access to lands that DCR is currently stewarding

The goal of the First Peoples First Stewards Partnership is to build reciprocal relationships between the DCR, Tribal Governments, and Indigenous Community Stakeholders. These relationships will enhance DCR’s work through providing an additional lens of culturally responsive stewardship while providing access and opportunities for Native people to connect with the land, water, and the Natural World.

Led by the Indigenous People’s Partnership Coordinator, this program helps the Agency to better acknowledge and understand the role of DCR-stewarded lands in the cultural continuity, public health, well-being, and sovereignty of Tribal Governments and Indigenous people in Massachusetts. Using guidance from Executive Order 126, Executive Order 637, and the Office of Environmental Justice & Equity, this program works directly with Tribal Governments to ensure that Tribal Government priorities, voice, and concerns are present and prioritized in project management and programs. First Peoples First Stewards offers partnership opportunities with Tribal Governments and Indigenous community stakeholders to uplift Indigenous communities and to make DCR parks, forests, and lands more welcoming.

First Peoples First Stewards works with DCR’s Archaeology staff, Interpretive Services , and the Office of Natural Resources, while offering support to staff across divisions to ensure that Indigenous voice is infused throughout the agency through outreach, policy, and collaboration.

Related Links

Massachusetts Commission on Indian Affairs

Executive Order 126: Massachusetts Native Americans

Executive Order 637: Recognizing the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe