Indigenous Perspectives That Inspire, Educate, and Create Lasting Change

For many audiences, Native American history and culture has been presented through textbooks, stereotypes, or historical events disconnected from living Indigenous communities.

As an enrolled member of the Washoe Tribe of California and Nevada, educator, researcher, and award-winning author, Dr. Jackie Cope brings a voice that bridges Indigenous knowledge, academic research, and practical education. Her presentations invite audiences to move beyond learning about Native Americans and toward understanding Indigenous perspectives that continue to shape our communities today.

Whether speaking to educators, universities, tribal organizations, museums, nonprofits, government agencies, or community groups, Dr. Cope creates engaging presentations that combine storytelling, history, educational research, and authentic lived experience.

Her goal is simple:

To help people see Native communities with greater understanding, respect, and curiosity while providing practical knowledge they can immediately apply.

July 2026

Indigenous California: Then, Now, Always with Alicia Benally & Jackie Cope

This presentation explores the history and culture of the Cahuilla people and neighboring tribal nations. Learn about contemporary Indigenous communities and gain a deeper understanding of tribal sovereignty, culture, and connection to place. This presentation provides important context for the upcoming Cultural Explorations travel program while challenging common misconceptions about California Native peoples. This presentation serves to explain that Indigenous California is not only part of the past, but a living, thriving, and enduring presence today and into the future.