Bree Lameman
The Diné have always been stewards of their land, maintaining a reciprocal and respectable relationship with nahasdzáán (mother earth) and their food systems, while being guided by their Dine bi beehaz’aanii (Diné Fundamental Law). However, climate change and environmental stressors are amplifying in Diné Bikeyah (Navajo Nation) and affecting their relationships to their Diné food systems. The integration of hydroponic technology with Diné epistemologies can lead to sustainable, resilient, and culturally relevant agricultural practices that support food security, Diné cultural resurgence, and environmental justice, while empowering Diné communities to regain and reshape control of their food systems. Our project provides an overview of the development of the Diné hydroponic curriculum, the co-creation with two Diné-led organizations, and the application and implication of the CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance in technological innovation for Diné communities. A community-led effort by Diné local organizations and a Diné advisory board, co-created a hydroponic curriculum using Diné methodologies and epistemologies of Shábik’ehgo As’ah Oodáál (Diné Wellness Model), Diné Bich’iya (Diné Food Sovereignty), and Dine bi beehaz’aanii. The Nurturing Plants Project is a series of five hydroponic workshops that included Diné practices of Hózhóógo Iiná (Diné healing and restoring balance and harmony) for spiritual health and wellness. The project centered on Diné leadership, frameworks, and community wellbeing, leading to the first hydroponic curriculum development that is culturally centered on Diné methodologies. This approach advanced Diné innovation, self-determination, and food sovereignty through community ownership and control.