Learning to Listen: Supporting Survivant Futures through Food Forest Restoration with Chief Leschi Schools

Abstract

This thesis tells the story of a collaborative, capacity building project that supports the long-time desires of Chief Leschi Schools (CLS) and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians by supporting the expansion and revitalization of a Food Forest Outdoor Classroom space on CLS school grounds and Puyallup Tribal Land. By increasing access to cultural resources and Traditional Foods, while centering Tribal History and Culture as innate sources of strength, this collaboration supports community health and CLS curricula, empowering the next generation, their surrounding communities, and the environment. Context, history, and theory are interwoven with changing awareness, knowledge, and community desire to usher readers through the experience rather than a list of conclusions. Through relationships and the accountability they foster, I demonstrate how an active practice of listening increases project relevance and community participation while also facilitating flexible methods and “good work” grounded in intent.