A Collaborative Learning Opportunity: Environmental Stewardship and Indigenous Peoples in the Salish Sea Region

NOTE: This is a FREE event. The Leschi Hertiage Center (also known as the Nisqually Culture Center) is located in DuPont, Washington, about 40 miles south of Seattle. Because the Center has limited parking, we highly encourage carpooling or reserving a seat on our chartered bus (see registration). Lunch will be provided. Please register by Thursday, April 18th!

Join Global Family Travels and Global Classroom on April 20th at the Leschi Heritage Center (Nisqually Culture Center) for an enriching day of learning and exploration. We'll be privileged to hear from Native education specialists, as well as representatives of Washington State tribes and non-profit organizations deeply involved in environmental stewardship and cultural heritage preservation. Together, they will illuminate the ecological history of the region, share invaluable native and outdoor educational resources, and discuss conservation practices aimed at restoring harmony between humans and nature. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to gather insights that you can seamlessly integrate into your classroom teachings and community initiatives.

For time immemorial, Coast Salish people have been the devoted stewards of the lands and waters of the Salish Sea. Through their ancient stewarding practices, there's a wealth of wisdom to glean and apply towards fostering a deeper connection and restoration of balance between humanity and the natural world. This workshop is tailor-made for educators and sustainable tourism officials in the Puget Sound area, providing a comprehensive overview of how Tribal Alliances are spearheading environmental restoration efforts. Discover the array of educational resources and conservation-focused experiences available, designed to inform and inspire both residents and visitors alike on these critical issues.

As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Boldt decision in 2024, which solidified Native American treaty rights and tribal sovereignty, we'll delve into the profound significance of this landmark ruling. Learn about the remarkable contributions of Nisqually tribal members, including the legendary Billy Frank Jr., to the fisheries and environmental protection movement. Their legacy continues to shape and guide the ongoing efforts towards environmental conservation and cultural preservation in the region. Educators will have the opportunity to explore environmental stewardship through the lens of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), with a strong emphasis on Culturally Responsive Teaching. This exploration underscores how SEL practices can not only foster mutual respect between local and tribal communities but also elevate diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for all individuals within the classroom. Washington State educators are eligible to receive up to 5 clock hours for participation in this workshop. All participants will receive a comprehensive resource guide to supplement this event! 

PROGRAM AGENDA 

The Program Agenda includes two panel topics, lunch and afternoon breakout sessions:

8:45 am | Arrival & Coffee

9:00 am | Welcome Remarks

9:20 am | General Introductions

9:30 - 10:30 am | Panel Discussion: Restoring the Environment through Tribal Alliances (see Panel Bios here)

10:30 - 10:45 am | Coffee Break

10:45 - 11:45 am | Panel Discussion: Native Education and Outdoor Education Opportunities (see Panel Bios here)

11:45 am - 12:30 pm | Lunch Break/ networking

NOTE: After a delicious salmon lunch, participants will engage in breakout discussion groups on topics related to native education, conservation, restoration, and cultural heritage.

12:30 - 1:45 pm | Breakout Sessions: Conservation, Restoration, Cultural Heritage

1:45 pm | Final Remarks & Next Steps