2021-3-2_PR_Comm Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

SUMMARY OF CONVERSATION WITH WAYNE DUCHENEUX, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NATIVE GOVERNANCE CENTER Notes taken by Matthew Johnson, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation Phone Conversation, December 1, 2020 Comments made by Wayne: The Parks and Recreation Commission deserved praise for taking on this issue and that that showed a level of cultural awareness. Emphasized that the most important thing is that the Commission is transparent with their process. In his experience, trying to hide anything when discussing an issue like this, regardless of whether well-intentioned, will yield distrust. Also emphasized that it is important that the commission is accurate and thoughtful when sharing why this is being considered and with all messaging. The name Pocahontas is not necessarily offensive to him personally, but the Pocahontas imagery that most people know is based upon mis-information or stereotypes and is likely not helpful to native communities. He also mentioned that Pocahontas has no ties to Minnesota, so the name doesnto make much sense in Minnesota, regardless of original intention. Recommended review of Reclaiming Native Truths research study on native identity and representation in modern media. Recommended hearing from Dakota representatives since the land that the park is on was likely Dakota land. Cautioned that although this issue is important, the Commission should be respectful of Native American. This likely will not be as high of a priority for Native American representatives as it is for the Commission, though that shouldn they do not care or support the efforts. He also mentioned that the COVID-19 Pandemic has hit the Native American Communities hard and that that may be impacting some peoplebility to respond or participate in the conversation. Cautioned that these issues inflame tension and no matter where the commission lands, there will likely be unhappy people on both sides. Encouraged the commission to follow their process, make a sincere effort to understand the native American perspective and be transparent when making their recommendation. In closing, Wayne reiterated his appreciation that the Commission is examining this issue and for the thoroughness of the proposed process.