Indigenous Wisdom: Pathways to Environmental Stewardship - Online Classroom

We often find ourselves immersed in nature's beauty, traversing forests, streams, and mountains. But do we do so with intention? Do we pause to consider the Native Peoples who have long cared for this land, or truly see the indigenous plants and medicines that grace these sacred spaces? I invite you to a discussion about re-evaluating our relationship with the outdoors and learning a different kind of respect for the land.

Seminar Notes

This presentation will encourage attendees to speak up throughout the presentation and be interactive with the presenter and one another.

Presenter

My name is Rachel Heaton. I come from a rich heritage, as a member of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and a descendant of the Duwamish people, with European roots as well. I am a mother to 3 beautiful children, and they are my greatest motivation.

In recent years, I became deeply involved in environmental justice, notably as part of the coalition that successfully urged Seattle to divest from Wells Fargo, a primary funder of the Dakota Access Pipeline. This experience led me to co-found Mazaska Talks, an Indigenous-led divestment organization. I now travel globally, sharing insights on how Wall Street banks and the fossil fuel industry contribute to our planet's destruction. I also speak passionately about the violations of our rights as Native and Indigenous peoples, always seeking creative ways—whether through public speaking, connecting through nature, or physical fitness—to educate and raise awareness beyond my community. In my everyday life, I work as a culture educator for my tribe, dedicated to learning, building, and sustaining our ancestral practices.

6:00-7:15pm PST via Zoom Meeting
Meeting link will be sent to registered attendees the day of the session.