Fresh Banana Leaves: Healing Indigenous Landscapes Through Indigenous Science

In "Fresh Banana Leaves," Indigenous environmental scientist Jessica Hernandez critiques Western conservationism and introduces Indigenous ecological knowledge as a powerful alternative. Hernandez, of Maya Ch’orti’ and Zapotec heritage, highlights the systematic exclusion of Indigenous science from mainstream environmental policy, despite its proven effectiveness. Through case studies, personal stories, and family histories, she showcases the successes of Indigenous land management practices and argues for a holistic, respectful approach to environmental stewardship that prioritizes healing and sustainability over displacement and destruction.