Meet a Ranger: Jade Ryerson

Cultural Preservation In Your Park

By: Jade Ryerson, Historian, Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

It's an exciting time to join the staff at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Over the past few years, park staff have prioritized rebuilding our relationships with Tribal Nations and Indigenous community members. On November 3, 2023, Mni Owe Sni / Coldwater Spring was officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a Traditional Cultural Property, in recognition of its cultural significance to Dakota people. This designation ensures that everything that happens at the site will be driven by Dakota perspectives and priorities. My position adds staff capacity to strengthen our existing partnerships and forge new ones with Native-led organizations throughout the river corridor. For instance, through an agreement with Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi, we're working to develop an interpretive plan to accurately and authentically represent Dakota history and culture in our ranger-led public programs, digital resources, and public displays.

In addition to working with Tribal Nations, part of my job is to help tell the underrepresented stories associated with the park. With over 12,000 years of human history represented by our resources, we have an immense responsibility to ensure that everyone can see themselves and the stories that matter to them reflected in the places around them. While I was drawn to the park's commitment to telling all Americans' stories, I'm even more excited by the opportunity to leverage institutional resources to center community voices. By understanding all of our shared heritage (especially the complicated, painful parts), we can begin to redress harm, learn from our mistakes, and find inspiration to tackle new challenges.

Join our History Cruise series this summer. Information and registration will be coming soon at parkconnection.org/events.