From Left: Sunshine Gumms (Shinnecock), Chief Anne Richardson, and Marguerite Smith (Shinnecock)
The Rappahannock Tribe is thrilled to share an exciting collaboration between Mission Blue, The Explorers Club, the Paul Sarbanes Coastal Ecology Center at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and the Rappahannock Tribe.
The Tribe had lots to celebrate last week, including Stephen Tomasetti, director of the Sarbanes Coastal Ecology Center, announcing his partnership with the Tribe and its work to restore oysters in the Rappahannock River. Additionally, the Chesapeake Bay Hope Spot announcement took place during the Ocean Week celebration, where the monumental progress of the Bay and the importance of Indigenous Ecological Knowledge were amplified.
Hope Spots are recognized for their astounding ecological, cultural, and historical value. The Chesapeake Bay’s biodiversity and deep-rooted Indigenous Heritage have been huge in the watersheds’ restoration journey.
Chief Anne Richardson was delighted to represent the Tribe and join the historical celebration to embed Indigenous Knowledge and redirect Tribal Sovereignty in the revision of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement.
Chief Anne also shared the vision of Indigenous Guardians, founded by the Indigenous Conservation Council, at the Ocean Week celebration that brought Hope Spot champions together from around the world, sharing the stage with Dr. Sylvia Earle (Her Deepness).
This event would not have been possible without the Mission Blue organization. Kate Killerlain Morrison, Laura Dahlbeck Cassiani, and Shannon Mclntyre Rake were able to bring Hope Spot teams together from all over the world. The Tribe says it is ready to roll up its sleeves and get busy on this l collaboration with our Hope Spot Champions to demonstrate the power of Indigenous-led conservation.
The Tribe xxtended thanks to the many individuals who devoted time and hard work to get us here, including Constance Difede, bridge construction extraordinaire Ellen Piktch whose partnerships with Shinnecock Indian Nation and Sunshine Gumms, assisted in bringing the groupstogether. Additionally, the Tribe recognized the leadership from Ted Janulis, the heart of Lesley
Ewing, and the dedicated work of Lonnie Schorer.
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