Leaders Demand Action to Protect Salish Sea
Coast Salish leaders said an emphatic “No” to energy development and oil transport through Salish Sea when they gathered at Swinomish, Washington, in early June. Coast Salish Gathering delegates unanimously agreed to work together to address the transport of crude oil shipments by rail and sea through their territories. Tribes and Indian nations from Washington State met with their ‘relations’ from British Columbia have been united for the past decade to protect the Salish Sea.
Swinomish chairman Brian Cladoosby said: “We call to action the federal, state and provincial governments to work with us to restore and protect the Salish Sea through trans-boundary science, and reformof law, policy and regulations that balance environmental protection andeconomic prosperity so we may all continueto call this unique place our home.” Ray Harris of Stz’uminus First Nationand co-chair of the First Nations Summitin BC, said: “We have removed two dams from the Lower Elwha River so our salmoncan return home, but where will our salmon go if the Salish Sea is dirty? I speak fish,as do all of you, and with one voice we are unified for the salmon and the Salish Sea –for today and for generations to come.”Jay Julius, a council member from Lummi Nation said: “We have been here sincetime immemorial; and it is our sacred responsibilityto ensure we protect our wayof life for generations to come”
