Both sword and shield.

The article explores the complex relationship between tribal nations and the Endangered Species Act (ESA). While tribal governments have used the ESA to protect culturally important species and secure funding for reintroduction efforts, the law does not fully acknowledge tribal sovereignty. The article highlights conflicts that arise when the ESA's protections clash with tribal development plans or hunting rights. It also suggests that recovery goals under the ESA should aim for historic abundance to support tribal foodways and cultural practices. Ultimately, tribes want endangered species to not just recover, but flourish, in order to restore their own relationship with these plants and animals. [Extracted from the article]