Engaging Latino/a Communities in National Park Programs: Building Trust and Providing Opportunities for Voice

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between National Park Programs and Latino/a Communities. We argue that what is missing in traditional approaches are authentic efforts that invite, involve and include in ways that develop genuine confianza (trust) and respeto (respect). Using Senecah's " Trinity of Voice " as an analytical guide and organizing framework, this Environmental Management and Sustainable Development ISSN 2164-7682 2015, Vol. 4, No. 1 www.macrothink.org/emsd 137 article draws from literature in fields such as Ethnic Studies, Latino/a Studies, Environmental Communication, Environmental Studies, and Natural Resource Management to provide new perspectives and best practices associated with engaging Latino/a communities with nature in general and National Parks. In particular, we suggest engaging techniques such as the use of non-traditional media, partnerships, staff recruitment, and the creation of a community advisory board.