Exploring Native Lands: Understanding the Significance of the Land We Travel Upon

Wherever you journey in the United States—and indeed throughout North America—you are stepping onto the ancestral lands of Indigenous peoples.

Travel can serve as a powerful educational experience, enhancing our appreciation for diverse places, cultures, and communities. Whether you're venturing across the U.S. or exploring your local area, from bustling cities to stunning national parks, take the time to learn about the land's original inhabitants.

The stories surrounding our nation’s vast landscapes frequently neglect the profound human history tied to these areas; there is much more to uncover about these places and their original peoples. Therefore, with expert insights, we've compiled valuable tips for visiting Native lands.

Explore the land's heritage.

In recent years, Indigenous land acknowledgments have gained traction as meaningful gestures, especially for travelers. These statements honor the Indigenous peoples who first lived in the area and recognize their enduring connection to the land, reflecting on their stewardship and the ongoing effects of colonialism. To prepare a land acknowledgment, it's crucial to educate yourself about the land you inhabit.

Native Land Digital is a Canadian nonprofit organization led by Indigenous individuals and serves as a valuable resource. Their evolving, searchable map helps users identify the Indigenous nations and communities linked to specific territories. Christine McRae, the executive director, discussed with Dinogo how travelers can utilize this platform for education. McRae advises discovering the Indigenous name of the land and understanding its significant historical moments, asserting, "We have a duty to dig deeper into the complete narratives of these places," as colonial histories often overlook rich human experiences. She emphasizes the importance of learning about whose land we occupy and connecting with its people.

However, understanding this context extends beyond history. As Jolie Varela, founder of Indigenous Women Hike, points out, the impacts of colonization and displacement are integral to our current societal dynamics. It’s vital to delve into historical injustices and contemporary issues faced by Native communities to effectively support them. Furthermore, Varela stresses the importance of being intentional with land acknowledgments, advising against performing them without genuine efforts to assist those communities.

Be a considerate guest.

Basic travel etiquette applies universally, including when visiting public parks — be they national, state, or local. Always stay on designated trails, dispose of trash responsibly, avoid vandalism, respect wildlife by keeping your distance, and be considerate of other visitors. When on tribal lands, such as reservations, remember that you are in a residential community with unique customs and rules — what is acceptable in one area may not be in another, and some activities may be private. It’s wise to ask permission before photographing individuals or cultural events and to refrain from collecting or removing any objects you encounter. Varela suggests treating these spaces with the same respect you would wish from guests in your own home.

Explore the local cultural center.

Make it a point to visit Native cultural centers and museums to deepen your understanding of the area's history, culture, and community. The offerings and exhibits differ by location but provide a chance to engage with tribal heritage through artifacts, replicas of traditional homes, stories shared by community members, as well as traditional attire and crafts. Bill Wright, superintendent of Chickasaw National Recreation Area, notes that while each national park has its own character, it's crucial for them to educate the public about their history and promote visits to places like the Chickasaw Visitor Center and Cultural Center for further learning.

Support businesses owned by Indigenous people.

Investing in Indigenous-owned businesses is an impactful way to contribute to these communities. Look for restaurants, shops, hotels, and tour operators owned by Native individuals or nations in the areas you visit. By choosing these businesses, you’ll gain a richer understanding of the local history and culture. Indigenous eateries can offer authentic culinary experiences, while shops may feature genuine arts and crafts, and Native guides can share invaluable insights about the land. McRae emphasizes that it's about "making an effort to find those tourist spots, accommodations, and experiences operated by Indigenous people to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of your destination."

Keep learning, even after your journey ends.

Your educational journey can continue even after you return home. Explore the land you inhabit, visit a local cultural center to learn about the original inhabitants, and support Indigenous-owned businesses.

Connect with Indigenous creators from across the nation and the globe — they frequently share valuable insights and resources on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Follow Indigenous news outlets or accounts that highlight issues affecting Native communities, as these topics often receive insufficient attention. To stay informed, engage with Indigenous-led organizations and activists, and share what you learn with others. As you expand your knowledge, consider ways to offer support, whether by donating to organizations that assist Native communities or directly to the tribes through their official websites.

Elizabeth Rhodes serves as an associate digital editor at Dinogo and belongs to the Nansemond Indian Nation. Follow her journeys on Instagram @elizabetheverywhere.

Acknowledgments for the Program

Editorial Leads: Alisha Prakash and Elizabeth Rhodes; Contributors: Johanna Read, Carrie Ann Back, Elizabeth Rhodes; Visuals Editor: Mariah Tyler; Creative Director: Jenna Brillhart; Art Director: Sarah Maiden; Producer: Karen Chen