We established the Bioneers TEK (Traditional Ecological Knowledge) workshops in partnership with Indigenous leaders and culture bearers, giving special attention to participation by California Indian tribes to honor the fact that the annual workshop and Bioneers Conference take place on their ancestral territories.
Our Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) workshops, offered to the public the day before the annual Bioneers Conference create a Native-led invitational space for demonstrating how Indigenous science, traditional knowledge, and Indigenous worldviews can be practically applied to address environmental and social challenges that all peoples face.
The TEK workshop brings together Native knowledge bearers, scholars, artists, youth, elders, and activists to address a specific theme in depth. We hold conversations about traditional knowledge, engage in hands-on activities, and share healthy Indigenous foods with attendees. Past TEK workshops have highlighted subjects including tending the wild with acorns, elderberries and pine nuts; Indigenous farming; salmon; and climate change.
“I am now more motivated than ever to come to the foreground of the fight for natural protection. I am eager to use my two hands, mind, and heart to help.”
– TEK workshop attendee
TEK Presenters
- Adae Romero-Briones (Cochiti Pueblo/Kiowa): Director of Programs, First Nations Development Institute
- Ilarion Merculieff (Unangan): Global Center for Indigenous Leadership and Lifeways
- Leah Mata (Northern Chumash): Artist
- Hillary Renick (Sherwood Valley Pomo): BIA Sacramento
- California Indian Cultural Museum and Cultural Center Youth Ambassadors
- Edward Willie (Pomo/ Wailaki/Wintu): Traditional Artist and Culture Bearer
- Vincent Medina (Chochenyo Ohlone): California Traditional Foods Expert
- Dean Hoaglin (Coast Miwok/Pomo/Wailaki/Yuki): Traditional Leader
- Manny Lieras (Dine/Comanche): American Indian Cultural Resource Center
- Julian Noisecat (Sepwepmc): 2019 Canoe Journey Organizer
