Reimagining Space: From Colonial Narratives to Indigenous Stewardship

Manifest Destiny to the Stars: Rethinking Our Language and Relationship with Space

In a recent staff briefing, acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy remarked on the United States’ “manifest destiny to the stars,” echoing sentiments reminiscent of President Donald Trump’s inaugural address. This rhetoric, while stirring, raises critical questions about nationalism and colonial legacies in the realm of space exploration.

The Race to the Stars: Competition or Cooperation?

The notion of a “space race” is not just a nostalgic reference to the Cold War but a current reality as the U.S. and China eye the Moon’s south pole for its potential resources. With private companies like Interlune now seeking to mine helium on the Moon, it seems the space race has extended beyond nation-states to include corporate players. This vein of thinking fosters an environment where space is viewed as a prize to be won, echoing colonial attitudes of conquest.

When we phrase our endeavors in terms of “colonialisation” or “conquest,” we risk perpetuating power dynamics that have historically marginalized Indigenous perspectives. These words are not mere metaphors; they signify a human-centric worldview where celestial bodies are treated as mere resources to exploit rather than realms deserving of stewardship and respect.

The Legacy of ‘Manifest Destiny’ in Space

The term “manifest destiny” originated in the 19th century to justify the territorial expansion of the U.S. westward, often at the expense of Indigenous peoples. It carried the implication that such expansion was divinely ordained, opening pathways for violence and dispossession. Similarly, as we look to the stars, this mindset resurfaces, prompting questions about the ethics of our actions.

In the Cold War, this desire for supremacy in space fostered competition between superpowers while sidelining voices from nations that had experienced colonial rule. The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 aimed to establish outer space as a domain for all mankind — a sentiment that stands in stark contrast to the current “race” mentality that prioritizes national and corporate interests.

An Alternative Vision: Indigenous Perspectives

The need for a paradigm shift becomes evident when considering Indigenous wisdom, which offers a more holistic understanding of our relationship with the cosmos. For instance, the Māori ethic of kaitiakitanga emphasizes stewardship, recognizing our interconnectedness with the more-than-human world. This perspective fosters a sense of shared responsibility, where celestial bodies and Earth are not separate entities to exploit, but rather integral parts of a whole.

Indigenous frameworks remind us of our obligation to future generations, advocating for policies and practices that honor past, present, and future relationships. Collaborative research initiatives, such as those by Bawaka Country, challenge the idea of space as an empty void waiting to be filled with resources. This narrative shift highlights the importance of ethical commitments to care for the sky and beyond.

Reclaiming the Narrative

By rethinking the language we use around space, we can break free from the shackles of coloniality and foster a more inclusive, relational approach. As we consider ourselves “space citizens,” the responsibility to engage with outer space falls on all of us—not just nations and tech titans.

Expanding this conversation means redefining our relationship with space to one rooted in stewardship rather than exploitation. If we fail to harness these perspectives, we risk repeating historical injustices, launching them into the cosmos rather than rectifying them.

Conclusion

As we stand on the brink of a new era in space exploration, it is vital to recognize the language we employ and the histories it invokes. Embracing an Indigenous-inspired lens can guide us toward a future characterized by cooperation, shared responsibility, and respect for celestial realms that go beyond national interests and corporate ambitions. In doing so, we not only honor the past but also pave the way for an inclusive future, where everyone has a stake in the cosmos.