![native voices in STEM graphic](/sites/wrrc.arizona.edu/files/styles/az_large/public/2024-02/nvis-3.12.-24-dr.-martinez-_2_.jpg?itok=Iorw4Gxv)
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![headshot of Deniss Martinez](/sites/wrrc.arizona.edu/files/styles/extra_medium/public/2024-02/deniss-martinez-website.jpg?itok=qnJohZNT)
Deniss is a community-engaged environmental justice scholar. Her research focuses on finding natural resource management strategies that support Tribal self-determination and governance. Using qualitative methods and community-based research Deniss’ current work centers on the stories and narratives of cultural fire practitioners in California. Her vision is to work on creating a future that centers the wisdom of Indigenous people, not just as marginally relevant but as central to environmental decision-making. She believes that just as people are an essential part of the environment; decolonization, reparations, and justice are essential to a just climate future. She aims to continue work that informs both settler governments and Tribal governments on the best strategies for solving the climate crisis in a way that uplifts Tribal sovereignty, ensures justice for communities of color, and builds governance, culture, and decision-making based on values of reciprocity, responsibility, and seven generation thinking.