Curtis Ogden’s Post

The teachings from this 2023 gathering and the follow up conversation keep on giving: ❤️ Expand the teachings, rather than simply repeating what and how they were given to us. ❤️ Protect and nurture endangered experiences, beyond endangered species. ❤️ Listen to the human and non-human elders. ❤️ Leverage collective power; row together. ❤️ Be accountable for impact. ❤️ Make room for wholeness. ❤️ Bring gifts and gratitude. ❤️ Lead with gentleness. ❤️ Practice forgiveness. ❤️ Remember to rest. https://lnkd.in/eDsZhpc6

This short movie from the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, a work of art by Sourland Studios, beautifully captures this inspiring message of the perils of our planet and the significance of the rematriation movement. It is an inspiring story of the partnership that led to the Cohanzick Nature Reserve. The rematriation of lands to local Indigenous people, a significant pillar of the rematriation movement, is crucial for protecting our cultural heritage, preserving traditional knowledge, and fostering environmental sacred symbiosis rooted in centuries-old practices. The rematriation of the Cohanzick Nature Reserve marks a significant step in a nationwide movement, and how our collaborative efforts by the Native American Advancement Corporation (NAAC), New Jersey Conservation Foundation, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Green Acres Program, and The Nature Conservancy, can heal historical injustices. Acquired in August 2023, this 63-acre forested property in New Jersey returns to the Cohanzick Lenape people, the land's original inhabitants. This initiative honors our enduring connection to the land. It sets a precedent for similar efforts across the country, highlighting the importance of such partnerships in promoting social justice and sacred environmental symbiosis. We at NAAC will be forever grateful for these partnerships, the gift from the Creator, and the promise we keep for those of the next seven generations. #Rematriation #IndigenousLand #CohanzickNatureReserve #CohanzickLenape #NativeAmericanAdvancementCorporation #NAAC #NewJerseyConservationFoundation #NJDEP #GreenAcresProgram #TheNatureConservancy #LandStewardship #CulturalHeritage #EnvironmentalSustainability #SocialJustice #SourlandStudios #NationwideMovement

In honor of the 100th anniversary of the Indian Citizenship Act. This short movie from the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, a work of art by Sourland Studios, beautifully captures this inspiring message of the perils of our planet and the significance of the rematriation movement. It is an inspiring story of the partnership that led to the Cohanzick Nature Reserve. The rematriation of lands to local Indigenous people, a significant pillar of the rematriation movement, is crucial for protecting our cultural heritage, preserving traditional knowledge, and fostering environmental sacred symbiosis rooted in centuries-old practices. The rematriation of the Cohanzick Nature Reserve marks a significant step in a nationwide movement, and how our collaborative efforts by the Native American Advancement Corporation (NAAC), New Jersey Conservation Foundation, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Green Acres Program, and The Nature Conservancy, can heal historical injustices. Acquired in August 2023, this 63-acre forested property in New Jersey returns to the Cohanzick Lenape people, the land's original inhabitants. This initiative honors our enduring connection to the land. It sets a precedent for similar efforts across the country, highlighting the importance of such partnerships in promoting social justice and sacred environmental symbiosis. We at NAAC will be forever grateful for these partnerships, the gift from the Creator, and the promise we keep for those of the next seven generations. #Rematriation #IndigenousLand #CohanzickNatureReserve #CohanzickLenape #NativeAmericanAdvancementCorporation #NAAC #NewJerseyConservationFoundation #NJDEP #GreenAcresProgram #TheNatureConservancy #LandStewardship #CulturalHeritage #EnvironmentalSustainability #SocialJustice #SourlandStudios #NationwideMovement

Have you ever wondered what it takes to lead with both heart and head when tackling some of our biggest environmental challenges? Berry Liberman recently took a walk on the wild side at Melbourne Zoo with Jennifer Gray, CEO of Zoos Victoria, for a remarkable conversation about finding hope in conservation. As they wandered among the incredible wildlife, Jenny opened up about the delicate balance of leading with deep compassion while staying grounded in practical solutions. Sometimes the best path forward isn't the quick-fix solutions — when we give ourselves permission to think differently, extraordinary things become possible. "This generation is growing up not hearing a positive path to the future. And I think we need to start creating that," Jenny shares. It's a powerful reminder of why we need to paint hopeful visions of tomorrow, especially for young people who will inherit the world we're shaping today. This is one of those conversations that will stay with you — full of wisdom about leadership, conservation, and what becomes possible when we dare to imagine a better way. Jenny's practical hope is exactly what we need right now. Don't miss their full conversation here: https://lnkd.in/gy9sJHih #conservation #leadership #hope #wisdom #action

Start Your LEGACY with This Simple Starter Phrase! To Get Started with Your Legacy Contribution, I found this BUILDING-BLOCK Phrase helpful//useful Complete this phrase: I want to craft “A Legacy of __” _A Legacy of Service - through mentoring _A Legacy of Stewardship - through forest conservation _A Legacy of Hope, Faith, and Grace - through community involvement with runaways _A Legacy of Memories - through writing a book of family stories _A Legacy of Feeling Informed - through creating a YouTube Channel about _?_ YT: https://lnkd.in/gSbMCJFP  #legacy #legacycontribution #gettingstarted

Finding Joy in the Everyday: A Reflection on Stewardship and Hope This morning, I experienced a moment of joy when two blue jays visited the bird and squirrel sanctuary in my garden. As I watched them move with grace and intention, I was reminded of the importance of creating spaces of peace—not just for myself, but for others, including the wildlife that shares our environment. The blue jay holds a deep spiritual connection in many cultures. It’s often seen as a symbol of clarity, resilience, and the ability to adapt to life’s challenges. These qualities resonate deeply with me, especially as I reflect on my journey through moments of difficulty and growth. Stewarding this little patch of land, ensuring it is a sanctuary not just for me but for all living things, has taught me that conservation begins with small, intentional acts. Whether it’s planting native flora, providing water and shelter, or simply observing the life that surrounds us, these actions create ripples far beyond what we see. For me, moments like this are what allow me to function in a high state of positivity and hope. They remind me that while the world can sometimes feel overwhelming, we have the power to shape our environment into places of peace and restoration. Today, I challenge all of you to find a way to connect with your environment. Create a space, however small, where life can flourish—whether it’s a garden, a park cleanup, or even a window box for pollinators. These spaces not only nurture the earth but also nurture our spirits, grounding us in the present and helping us move forward with purpose. What’s one small act you’ve done recently to care for your environment or to create peace for yourself or others? Share it below—I’d love to hear how you’re connecting with the world around you. Let’s keep building a better world, one small moment of joy at a time. #Stewardship #Conservation #Hope #Positivity #Environment

Honored to write about the interconnection of spirituality and management of our national forests. We need to use the wisdom of local communities to guide our longterm stewardship of America’s forests. https://lnkd.in/ga2cpCta

Native American Heritage Month, celebrated in November, is significant for the environment because it highlights the deep connection Indigenous peoples have with the land, often demonstrating a long history of sustainable practices and stewardship, serving as a reminder of the importance of respecting and protecting natural resources, and advocating for environmental justice issues faced by Native communities today. How to celebrate Native American Heritage Month: 💚Learn about traditional ecological knowledge: Explore the specific practices of local Native tribes related to land management and resource conservation. 💚Support Indigenous-led conservation organizations: Donate to or volunteer with groups working to protect sacred lands and water sources. 💚Attend events focused on environmental justice: Participate in discussions and workshops addressing environmental concerns facing Native communities. 💚Engage with Native American voices: Seek out information from Indigenous leaders and activists on environmental issues.

Sacred Storm Buffalo brings food sovereignty to life by producing healthy, culturally significant buffalo meat in harmony with nature and Indigenous values. Through sustainable practices grounded in Lakota traditions, Sacred Storm Buffalo fosters community health and resilience. Its approach to food sovereignty promotes ecological balance, honors natural biodiversity, and protects traditional knowledge, all while addressing food insecurity and nurturing local empowerment. Here are four words that capture the essence of Sacred Storm Buffalo: Resilient – embodying strength and perseverance in preserving Indigenous traditions. Transformative – creating life-changing opportunities and growth for Native youth. Cultural – rooted in Indigenous heritage, connecting the past and present. Sustainable – committed to food sovereignty and environmental responsibility.

The land we stand on is more than just soil and rocks; it's a legacy that connects us to our past, shapes our present, and holds the promise of our future. It's the foundation of our communities, cultures, and identities. 🌳🌄 The land is the only thing in the world worth working for, worth fighting for, worth dying for, because it’s the only thing that lasts. It's a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and continuity. 🌍💚 In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of our connection to the land. But it's essential to remember that the land sustains us, provides for us, and enriches our lives in countless ways. 🌾🌊 As stewards of the land, we have a responsibility to care for it, nurture it, and protect it for future generations. This means making sustainable choices, respecting its natural beauty, and recognizing its intrinsic value. 🌿🌟 Whether you're a farmer tending to your crops, a conservationist protecting endangered species, or simply someone who enjoys spending time in nature, we all have a role to play in preserving and celebrating the land that sustains us. 🚜🌳 Let's embrace our connection to the land, cherish its beauty, and honor its legacy. Together, we can ensure that it remains a source of inspiration, sustenance, and joy for generations to come. 🌍❤️ #LandLegacy #WorthFightingFor #Stewardship #Resilience #Perseverance #Connection #Community #Sustainability #Nature #Preservation #Celebration #F1RE #ForwardOneRealEstate