Tribal engagement must be built on the understanding of tribes as sovereign entities. Specifically, the TRAP Program supports tribal data sovereignty by ensuring that all data shared by Tribes through the TRAP program remains accessible through the public data portal and pledges to work with tribes to protect sensitive data.
We acknowledge that collaboration must be pursued as an equitable exchange and will strive to build the foundations of collaborative and mutually beneficial and sustainable relationships. As part of this belief, the TRAP Program is committed to providing open and respectful communication with tribal partners, including providing technical assistance for Tribal applicants as needed.
We acknowledge that all tribal communities are unique with distinct values and priorities. The TRAP Program is committed to supporting derelict trap removal in ways that are tailored to the needs of participating tribes and that support tribal efforts to protect culturally important waterways.
These principles are essential for fostering equitable and productive partnerships that ensure respect and support for tribal priorities and values. Our commitment to collaboration and ongoing relationships is at the core of the TRAP Program’s engagement efforts.
The TRAP Program has partnered with Kenah Consulting, a small, women and minority owned anthropological consulting firm dedicated to supporting tribal sovereignty, to assist in ensuring the TRAP Program embraces approaches that foster meaningful and sustainable tribal engagement that create tangible benefits to tribal communities.
Virginia Institute of Marine Science
Gloucester Point, VA
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This project is supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Debris Program with funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.