I just saw this in the newsletter of Alexandria Friends Meeting and thought
other Friends might be interested in taking action.
Juliet Isele
Standing up for Rassawek
Sue Marcus writes: the Monacan Indian Nation is working to protect their
historic capitol of Rassawek, the equivalent of the Powhatan capital,
Werowocomoco, which is now planned for inclusion in a national park. The James
River Water Authority proposes to build a water intake and pipeline on the
Rassawek site on the James River southeast of Charlottesville, although there
are other alternatives. In March, I attended the Water Authority Meeting, on
behalf of the Baltimore Yearly Meting Indian Affairs Committee. The Water
Authority spent less than two minutes agreeing to request a US Army Corps of
Engineers permit to proceed, never mentioning the word Rassawek in their
decision-making. This occurred despite more than 60 people speaking against
this action earlier in the meeting.
If you are led to join the BYM Indian Affairs Committee in witnessing to the
long-standing Quaker testimony for fair treatment of indigenous people, please
look at the information and possible actions available to you on the website of
their legal representations, Cultural Heritage Partners:
http://www.culturalheritagepartners.com/saverassawek/ You are also welcome to ;
contact Sue
