| |
August
11th
Seattle PI
editorial
August
1st
Seattle Times
editorial
July
31st
Bremerton Sun Article
Canoe
Journey 2004
Old Man House Park
Old
Man House Park
Respect for Tribal Gov't
Frequently
Asked Questions
Our
Activities
Our
History
Suquamish
Tribe
Home
Page
|
|
Suquamish
Olalla Neighbors
Olalla - The place where
fresh and saltwater meet and blend
|
August
12, 2004
Today was historic. The Washington state Parks and Recreation Commission decided unanimously to return Old Man House Park to the Suquamish Tribe.
Once the decision was made, the hall transformed into joyful pandemonium. The canoe pullers, who had arrived with paddles in hand, broke into song and drumming. People were crying and embracing. Even some of the parks commissioners were moved to tears.
This decision represents well over a year of work of Suquamish Olalla Neighbors, over 20 years of work for the Suquamish Tribe, and happens on the 100th anniversary of the year the land was taken from the people.
It happened because we worked together, we listened to each other, and showed up again and again to show support.
Today began with two buses filling with people for "The Ride of the Century." We had 77 in the buses, and many others traveling in their own cars. There were also two Suquamish canoes that arrived on the Port Angeles beach for the hearing. Other tribes were also represented. We quickly ran out of the 150 Chief Seattle Day buttons we had brought with us.
Testimony went on at length, including Tribal members, community supporters, representatives of statewide groups. There was also, of course, the regular representatives of the opposition. A surprising moment came when Senator Betti Sheldon read a letter from Governor Gary Locke supporting the transfer.
Then, testimony ended and the commission began deliberation. It didn't take long before they were fine-tuning the language that would set the stage for the transfer, and then quickly voted - unanimously!
THANKS to everyone who was part of making this a success. It was the letters, the emails, the attendance at meetings, the hard behind-the-scenes work, the integrity of your messages that did it. Special thanks to all who were able to be part of the Ride of a Century.
COME CELEBRATE: The Suquamish Tribe is planning a celebration at Chief Seattle Days on August 21 at 2 pm. Come celebrate this historic turning point together.
With gratitude,
Sarah van Gelder
www.soneighbors.org
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
