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Rae Baba, a senior Environmental Studies major and Environment, Peace and Justice minor, is at the forefront of an innovative research project that seeks to bring together Indigenous and Western knowledge and science. As part of the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program, supported by the Environmental Science and Design Research Institute (ESDRI), Rae is helping to develop a "two-eyed seeing" method—a concept rooted in the work of Native American ecologists. They are mentored by Elaine (Lan Yin) Hsiao, PhD, an Assistant Professor in the School of Peace and Conflict Studies. Hsiao, along side He Yin, PhD (Assistant Professor, Department of Geography), was awarded an ESDRI Seed Grant to develop this project alongside partners in California.

“My role in this research project is helping to develop a two-eyed seeing method,” Rae explains. “This method aims to combine traditional Indigenous ways of knowing with Western scientific practices. Hence the name ‘two-eyed,’ referring to the ability to see an environmental problem through the lens of both traditional knowledge and Western knowledge, using the best practices from each to solve the issue.” Rae is collaborating with Hsiao and plans to work with Native American Tribes to tailor this approach specifically for their communities in California, aiming to demonstrate its validity in addressing local environmental issues.

The journey into this research has been enlightening for Rae. “Before I started working with Dr. Hsiao, I had no idea what the two-eyed seeing method was. Learning about it was definitely the most interesting thing I encountered during the SURE program,” they share. To deepen their understanding, Rae engaged with various Indigenous communities on social media and immersed themself in extensive reading. “I know there is still much more to learn,” Rae adds, reflecting their commitment to growth and understanding.

The path has not been without challenges though. “One of the biggest challenges was learning how to conduct research,” Rae admits. “This is the first research project I have been involved in, and it’s a completely different experience from any class I’ve ever taken.” Navigating this new terrain has provided Rae with valuable insights into the research process itself.

Reflecting on the support from ESDRI, Rae emphasized its importance to their project. “The support from ESDRI was invaluable for me and this research. Without ESDRI’s funding through the SURE program, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity this summer to work on a project that I am incredibly passionate about.” Inspired by this program, Rae joined as an ESDRI undergraduate fellow to stay involved with the institute while she finishes her research project.

Through their efforts, Rae Baba is not only advancing academic knowledge but also championing a more holistic approach to environmental stewardship. Rae's work serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration between diverse knowledge systems, paving the way for more effective and inclusive environmental solutions.

Learn more about the ESDRI Seed Grant funding this research

WRITTEN BY: Katherine McNamara Manning, PhD

PHOTO CREDIT: He Yin, PhD