Celebrating Black Geographers: Spotlight on Dr. Niiyokamigaabaw Deondre Smiles
What inspired you to pursue geography?
I have always been interested in geography from a young age – the idea of learning about the world around us, and the relationships that people have with key geographical concepts of space and place, has shaped my work and career trajectory in this field.
How does your identity shape your work in geography?
As a Black and Ojibwe person, I strongly believe in the importance of my own cultural teachings, which emphasize an intimate connection with land, place, and space – core tenets of geography.
Which of your projects or publications are you most proud of and why?
I am very proud of my 2020 article, “The Settler Logics of Outer Space.” It is a widely cited piece, and as it is open access, it is accessible to all.
In what ways can geography better amplify Black voices and communities?
Some key ways that Geography can better amplify Black voices and communities is through citational practices, providing opportunities for Black geographers to share their work broadly, and by recognizing and uplifting the vital contributions that Black voices and Black communities can provide to geographic study!
What advice would you give to aspiring geographers?
Your voices and your perspectives matter in the discipline. Your own lived experiences and the ways that they can shape your interactions with geography are essential, and you should always place yourself in spaces where these experiences are both honoured and supported.
Dr. Niiyokamigaabaw Deondre Smiles Ph.D. (He/They/Wiin) Tribal Affiliation: Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Adjunct Professor, Director of the Geographic Indigenous Futures Collaboratory Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability The University of British Columbia | Vancouver Campus | Musqueam Traditional Territory 2202 Main Mall | Vancouver BC | V6T 1Z4 Canada dsmiles@mail.ubc.ca https://deondresmiles.com | https://geographicindigenousfutures.ca