For this episode, Mos Def and Talib Kweli (aka Cody and Dan) are going #beyondFLG with Colleen Cooley (@ccoolio2). Typically our introductions have included statements about the current working roles and responsibilities of the individual with a focus on achievement. However, Colleen demonstrated a different model of introductions that we’d like to honor. Pay close attention to how she introduces herself with a focus on her personal history and heritage.

For now, let us say that Colleen grew up splitting time between Shonto, Blue Gap, and Flagstaff, AZ. She grew a meaningful connection with the lands, plants, animals, and water around her that led to becoming a river guide and consulting activist. Currently, Colleen maintains her connection to the environment around her by advocating for the rights of the people and the natural world in this area. She has a powerful and important voice. Be sure to catch the “Beyond the Pandemic” series orchestrated by Colleen in which the topic of incorporating indigenous voices into decisions about the land, including the Grand Canyon, are addressed. Two episodes in those series have been released with two more on the way. Check out links to that series and other links to Colleen’s work below and follow Colleen Cooley on the IG, @ccoolio2. With that said, let’s go #beyondFLG with Colleen Cooley.

Water Flows Together

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrIa7y1P_f4

Inhabitants

https://www.inhabitantsfilm.com/

Beyond the Pandemic: Indigenous Sovereignty https://youtu.be/RonA0k6aZh8

Beyond the Pandemic: Diversity in the Outdoors

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npLT0Gr4GUI&feature=youtu.be

KNAU: Not Your Playground

https://www.knau.org/post/not-your-playground-indigenous-voices-grand-canyon-s-centennial

TED: Our Relationship with Water

https://www.npr.org/programs/ted-radio-hour/899822853/our-relationship-with-water