Tribal Engagement
Yellowstone Forever’s commitment to deepening relationships with Indigenous communities is reflected in a growing network of education, engagement, and outreach efforts both inside and outside the park. Working in partnership with Tribal governments, Indigenous individuals, and Native-led nonprofits, Yellowstone Forever helps create opportunities for cultural exchange and public learning. Signature events such as the Voices of Yellowstone: First Peoples’ Celebration provide meaningful platforms for Indigenous artists, educators, and leaders to share their stories and traditions with visitors. In collaboration with the National Park Service, we also host the annual Tribal Education and Engagement Gathering, bringing together Tribal partners and park staff to strengthen relationships and co-create long-term educational strategies. These ongoing programs, events, and partnerships help reshape how visitors experience Yellowstone—elevating Indigenous voices and building new pathways for mutual understanding.
Tribal Heritage Center
Established in 2022 at Old Faithful, the Yellowstone Tribal Heritage Center serves as a dedicated space for cultural expression, education, and storytelling. Created through a collaborative effort between Yellowstone Forever, National Park Service, and Tribal communities, the Center honors the deep and ongoing connections of the 27 Tribes associated with the Yellowstone region. Open seasonally, the Center provides a welcoming venue for Tribal presenters, artists, and knowledge keepers to engage directly with visitors. In the summer of 2024, 36 presenters from 17 different Tribes shared their histories, arts, and perspectives. The Heritage Center stands as both a physical space and a living commitment to ensuring Indigenous leadership and presence within Yellowstone’s interpretive framework.
Oral Histories Project
To preserve and amplify Indigenous perspectives, Yellowstone Forever is launching the Yellowstone Tribal Oral Histories Project in partnership with the National Park Service and the 27 Tribes associated with Yellowstone. This multi-year initiative will document and archive oral histories from Tribal elders and cultural leaders, ensuring these stories are protected and shared with future generations. The project will inform new interpretive materials—including visitor center exhibits, waysides, and digital storytelling—and all content will be developed through close consultation with Tribal governments. With cultural protocols and contracting with Native-owned businesses to guide every step, this initiative will help ensure that Yellowstone’s public narrative is more complete, inclusive, and reflective of the deep, living connections Indigenous peoples hold with this land.
