OMCA exhibit highlights Indigenous knowledge of controlled burning

The Oakland Museum of California opened “Good Fire: Tending Native Lands,” an exhibition exploring how Native American communities in Northern California use controlled burns to support healthy ecosystems, according to reporting by The Oaklandside. The exhibit was co-curated by Ryder Diaz, OMCA’s curator of Natural Sciences, and Dr. Brittani R. Orona (Hupa), assistant professor of Native American Studies at UC Davis, with contributions from more than 40 Native collaborators. Diaz said the exhibition centers Native perspectives on cultural fire practices.

The exhibit includes artwork, basketry, films and historical materials that examine the impact of colonization, government fire suppression policies and the displacement of Native communities. It also highlights recent efforts to restore cultural burning, including legislation supported by the Karuk Tribe. “Good Fire” will be on display through May 31, 2026.