Since 2019 the Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee has been building programming and creating space for conversation and celebration surrounding Indigenous history and culture through partnering with and promoting local Indigenous vendors and organizations, providing resources and information about the MA Legislative Agenda and education around the history of Brookline.
This year’s programming included a Speaking Program located inside Town Hall featuring a reading of Brookline’s Land Acknowledgement followed by a welcome and poetry reading from the Committee’s chair person, a presentation about historical Indigenous stories, and a heart chant led by Brookline residents. ASL interpretation was provided by Gabrielle Weiler. The event also featured several local Indigenous craft vendors and free food from Chilacates. Local Brookline organizations were also present with books for sale, MA legislature agenda information, and local social and environmental actions of Indigenous peoples and allies in Brookline and throughout Massachusetts.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
01:13 Land Acknowledgement – Kailey Bennett
03:30 Welcome and Poem – Felina Silver Robinson
07:45 Speaker – Reverend, Dr. Clyde Grubbs
27:45 Speaker – Nayana LaFond
40:30 Tsalagi Heart Chant – Crystal Johnson and Aspen Johnson
44:20 Thanks