We understand research as a set of relationships—with communities, data, histories, and one another. Our work prioritizes trust, reciprocity, and responsibility over extraction or individual credit.

One group we are accountable to is the Native American and Indigenous Studies Initiative at Emory (NAISI). Learn more about this collaborative group here: https://native.emory.edu/index.html 

We recognize Tribal Nations as sovereign political entities and approach research with humility, consent, and respect for Indigenous governance, law, and self-determination.

Inspired by the role of grandmothers in our communities, we value wisdom passed across generations and consider the long-term consequences of our research for future Indigenous peoples

We believe Indigenous data belongs to Indigenous communities. Students commit to careful, ethical handling of data in alignment with Tribal priorities and the principles of Indigenous data governance.

We value knowledge that emerges from lived experience, community advocacy, and historical context—not only academic theory or quantitative methods.

Students approach political science questions with openness, recognizing the limits of their own perspectives and the importance of listening to Indigenous scholars, leaders, and communities

The lab operates as a collective. Students support one another, share skills, and recognize that meaningful research is built through cooperation rather than competition.

Research should matter beyond the classroom. We value work that supports Tribal Nations, informs advocacy, and contributes to real-world political and policy conversations.