Author: Jillard De Fiesta ’27
Indigenous Representation at Princeton
In the academic year 2022–2023, less than 2% of Princeton University undergraduates and less than 3% of the graduate student population identified as Native, according to the University’s Annual DEI Report. Despite this, Natives at Princeton (NAP) have ensured to create a space for students that welcomes diverse ethnic backgrounds. NAP is currently led by Ila Nako (President, Anthropology ’26) and Ixtle Montuffar (Vice President, EEB ’27). Not only is NAP a cultural affinity group that makes spaces for Indigenous people, but part of their mission also lies in education for non-native students that empowers Indigenous students.
Visions and Goals of Natives at Princeton
Indigenous people have always played a pivotal role in sustainability efforts globally. Because of this, it is not a surprise that Natives at Princeton have engaged in sustainable cultural practices. For instance, according to the United Nations, countries like Burundi and Zambia, where many of its residents rely on sustenance farming, have turned to indigenous organizations that promote sustainable agriculture. In another example, Indigenous communities in Bolivia have helped ease the plastic pollution in Lake Uru Uru by recycling its debris, combining indigenous knowledge and scientific principles. There is no doubt that Indigenous people around the world have been crucial in encouraging sustainable practices to combat negative effects of climate change.
Last spring, Natives at Princeton attended a lecture, hosted by Professor Mnour (part of the Department of Near Eastern Studies), about Amazigh lands — an opportunity for Princeton students to learn about indigenous knowledge in Amazigh communities with an emphasis on education. Indigeneity has always been linked with the environment, especially when it is the discussion of land use or who has ownership of ancestral lands. At this front, Natives at Princeton have been diligent to promote this connection and topics such as biodiversity, environmental racism, and environmental justice.
Undoubtedly, NAP has worked hard to create a space for Native and Indigenous students and education on campus. The organization is also a great place to connect and receive advice from upperclassmen Native students.
Getting Involved
To learn more about their organization, follow their instagram @princetonnatives. You can also visit https://indigenous.princeton.edu/events to learn more about any upcoming events with the Native American and Indigenous Studies Initiative at Princeton.
Citations:
The Trustees of Princeton University. (n.d.-a). Diversity, equity and inclusion annual report | inclusive princeton. Princeton University. https://inclusive.princeton.edu/about/reports-webinars/diversity-annual-report
Undp. (n.d.). What do the sustainable development goals have to do with indigenous people? – united nations development programme: UNDP. Exposure. https://stories.undp.org/what-do-the-sustainable-development-goals-have-to-do-with-indigenous-people