By Jared Wenzelburger / For Nisqually Valley News

More than 200 attendees gathered at the event hosted by Thurston County’s Interfaith Works and Learning Right Relations on Wednesday, March 1st at the Port of Olympia Plaza.

Local tribes across Washington to support the sculptors of the House of Tears and the Rumi Tribe in sending totems to “protect” Oak Flats, land sacred to the San Carlos Apaches in Arizona. leaders gathered.

Mr. Bob Iyal, Commissioner of Olympia Port and Elder of the Nisqually Indian Tribe, welcomed visitors to the city and thanked them for choosing Olympia for their totem prayer journey.

“We are all happy to be part of this,” said Iyall. “We will do our best for you and your Totem and your journey.”

The 65,000-mile journey brings the totem through reservations and cities across the United States, en route to Oak Flats and Apache Stronghold.

In a Facebook post, Interfaith Works said, “While the event is being held, Rumi is unable to financially support Totem’s journey at this time.” and support, it makes a lot of sense both emotionally and, if possible, financially.”

As first reported by The Washington Post, the Oak Flats and land sacred to tribes such as the Hopi, Zuni, Yavapai and Odham are under mining operations at one of North America’s largest untapped copper deposits. at risk of being destroyed by In his Facebook post for Interfaith Works, he said that Lummi and other local tribes were involved in protecting land and water bodies, which was the motivation behind his journey to Totem.

“A totem pole is a Trojan horse. It’s consciousness,” said Sul Khadav, who passes by Freddie Lane, a prayer journey organizer, road manager and fundraiser. “We are road warriors.”

For over 20 years, the House of Tears sculptor and brother James have worked in the spirit of healing, honor, hospitality, respect and protection.

According to the Raketemish Foundation newsletter, Rumi Elder Tom Sampson said, “A totem pole is not sacred, it is the gathering of people around the pole, and that is sacred.” increase.

After participants prayed and formed a circle around the staff, a ceremonial object featuring an eagle’s head, many participants put money into drums near the waterfront to help the cause.

“This is a spiritual job, and we believe we are spiritual beings with a human experience,” Lane said. and you must believe it.”

On March 9th, Tribes in Washington will honor the life of Billy Frank Jr., the Native American environmental leader who fought for Fisheries Treaty rights in Washington. Frank’s legacy was one of the reasons Wednesday’s rally was held at Olympia, as his birthday marks the year 12 when Discover his pass is no longer required when parking at the Department of Natural Resources and other state property. It’s his day in the day.

“Uncle Billy, he’s the hero of our time,” Lane said. “He was an icon for us, and even though he’s gone, his words still resonate with every little job he’s done.”