History of BUF's Involvement with Original Nations and Peoples, March 3, 2019

BUF and friends with Lummi Nation at GA in 2015

9:15 AM. Join Beth Brownfield and Deb Cruz as we explore BUF’s involvement with indigenous issues and communities.  Since 2005, our initial contact with Lummi Nation, we’ve charted a path that has led us through many places along the journey through Indian Country not only here in Whatcom County, but throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond.  Hear about where we’ve been, where we are and where we’re going on our journey to establishing right relations with our indigenous communities.

Beth Brownfield:  Beth is a lifelong activist and educator who has dedicated herself to working for understanding and social action around tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, and cultural appreciation. She has been deeply involved with solidarity work in the Dakotas, Minnesota and the Pacific Northwest, inspiring and mentoring UU congregations in MN, MA, ID, WA, OR.

Deb Cruz:  Deb has worked with issues in Indian Country across the northern U.S. since the mid-1970s. She has worked with Beth Brownfield in establishing relations with Lummi Nation and other Tribes/Nations throughout the Pacific Northwest. She is also President and Issue Team lead for First and American Indian Nations Solidary of JUUstice Washington, Washington State’s UU action network. 

Feb. 24, 2019, Sunday Forum 9:15 - Preserve, Protect and Restore

Gabe Epperson of Whatcom Land Trust will update us on the work of the Trust,

a private nonprofit organization that is committed to the preservation, protection and restoration of the natural and cultural heritage that has inspired so many people to make Whatcom County home. Preserving the extraordinary natural features that provide the quality of life we cherish– exceptional food, water, recreation and livelihood–requires active choices and enduring resolve. Whatcom Land Trust, with the help of landowners, donors and partners, has chosen to ensure that Whatcom County’s unique legacy remains for future generations.

Feb. 17, 2019. 9:15-10:15. Conference Room.

ASYLUM SEEKERS

Memorial for Amar Mergensana,
who died on hunger strike at NW Detention Ctr.

Junga Subedar, a community lawyer with the Whatcom Civil Rights Project, will discuss the current war against immigrants and asylum seekers. From an immigrant family herself, Junga is passionate about helping the most vulnerable people coming to our borders. Part of the immigration crisis is our denial of asylum to the most vulnerable people who are coming to our borders, fleeing some of the worst violence and danger in their countries, which in large part our government has created. One way we can do something is to consider becoming a community sponsor of an asylum seeker. A community sponsor can increase someone’s probability of being granted asylum and allow them a safe refuge. We must ask what happened to "Give me your tired, your poor…Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,” and what this famous sentiment means in a country of immigrants today. 

The Whatcom Civil Rights Project is a program under the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center and in partnership with LAW Advocates.

February 10, 2019: Transylvania Partner Church - Life in Magyarszovat

Transylvania travelers Mialee Jose and Reka Zoltan will take us back to Romania, sharing pictures and answering questions about what life is like for our church partners in Magyarszovat. What do the farmers do with the crops they grow? What is the school curriculum like? How are the villagers dealing with their children leaving for the cities?  Do villagers commonly have electronic devices? How does the mix of cultures affect their lives? Bring your curiosity and questions - immerse yourself in Magyarszovat village life!