——– Forwarded Message ——–
Subject: Press Release on Rainbow Gathering
Date: Tue, 16 Jun 2020 15:37:11 -0500
From: scottie addison <sca@Free-Assembly.org>
To: NPTEC@nezperce.org
PCU //\ Free Assembly Project /
St.Louis MO www.Free-Assembly.org
_//\_____________________________________an Association of Volunteers__/
15 June 2020
Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee
P.O. Box 305
Lapwai, ID 83540 eM: NPTEC@nezperce.org
re: Press Release on Rainbow Gathering
Dear Friends:
We just learned of your June 10 press release on the ‘Rainbow Gathering’ previously planned in the Nez Perce tribal region, and read it with regret. This goes out to share some information that may ease your biggest concerns, and to open up communications on the new situation that has emerged.
Please understand that there was no intent to sidestep the Nez Perce nation: scouting volunteers talked to tribal members last autumn, and longtime gatherers met with tribal Elders, members of “Nimiipuu: Protecting the Environment (NPTE)”, and the “Cultural Resources Program (CRP)” Director on 28 Jan. & 7 Feb. 2020.
They shared the Gatherings’ good history of environmental protection and respect for sacred places:
Outreach to Members of the Nimiipuu/Nez Perce Tribe (2/23/20)
Then Covid-19 swept the country… mindful gatherers converged in phone & online forums to acknowledge the unprecedented health crisis, and the wisdom of holding off on gathering in Idaho now. Upon heartfelt discussions, an historic “Agreement Not To Gather-2020“ has been acclaimed around the country.
This news was sent to the USFS Regional Forester [R1] last week, with a brief letter outlining these events & decisions in the public interest – and the problematic fact that some folks are headed to Idaho anyway.
That information package is forwarded as an attachment here, FYI.
Clearly things are different than anticipated, calling for a moderated policy approach on the part of the Forest Service and the NPTEC. Know that concerned people are watchful of the sanctity of your lands and safety of your communities, working for the best outcomes.
Thanks for your kind attention, will gladly assist as needed.
Respects,
scottie addison____
Coordinator
St. Louis, Missouri