by Deb Phillimore

Winona LaDuke, a leader and activist working on many issues including environmental justice, indigenous rights and local food systems came to Vashon recently to speak to a standing room only audience at the Open Space theater. The event was a fundraiser for Honor the Earth, the organization she co-founded in 1993 and the Heritage Association was pleased to be among the sponsors.

Patrick Christie, a UW professor and Heritage Association Trustee with prior links to LaDuke, convened the group in charge of organizing the event. “It is truly an honor to host such a prominent leader,” said Christie. "Winona LaDuke is one of the premier movement thinkers and actors of our time. We are so grateful that she is taking the time to come and bring her powerful message as we face our own regional struggles against the fossil fuel industry.”