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April, Earth Month, serves as a vital reminder of our shared responsibility to care for and steward the land that sustains us. In this time of reflection, it’s important to recognize how environmental justice is inherently connected to Indigenous ways of life, especially in communities like the Duwamish Tribe, where stewardship of the land has been a cornerstone of their culture for thousands of years. For us, the fight for environmental justice is not just about addressing pollution or advocating for cleanup—it's about restoring the sacred relationship between people and the land, a relationship that has been nurtured by Indigenous peoples for generations. Caring for the land is deeply rooted in Indigenous traditions, where the land is viewed not as a resource to be exploited, but as a living entity to be respected and cared for. The Duwamish River, which runs through Seattle and is central to the history and identity of the Duwamish Tribe, is more than just a body of water; it is a source of life, sustenance, and culture. For the Duwamish people, stewardship of the river and its surrounding ecosystems is not just a matter of environmental protection—it is a spiritual and cultural responsibility. The river, like the land, is treated with reverence and respect, as both a provider and a partner in the health of the community. DRCC’s work is a direct reflection of these values. Our Coalition seeks to restore the Duwamish River to a healthy state, ensuring that it continues to support both the environment and the people who depend on it. Our Coalition’s efforts are a manifestation of the Duwamish Tribe's ongoing role as caretakers of the land, even as they face the challenges of pollution, industrialization, and historical neglect. DRCC’s advocacy for cleaning up the river, protecting local ecosystems, and securing health and safety for the people living in the area is all part of our broader commitment to land stewardship and environmental justice. In the spirit of Earth Month, let us embrace the teachings of stewardship, recognizing that caring for the land is not just an act of preservation, but one of healing, justice, and respect for the generations that came before and the ones that will follow. The work of DRCC, grounded in the traditions of Indigenous care for the Earth, exemplifies how environmental justice and stewardship are inseparable in the fight to protect both the land and the communities that rely on it. Let’s care for our land and our Earth! Join us for Duwamish Alive! on April 19th at t̓uʔəlaltxʷ Village Park and Shoreline Habitat
Paulina López
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