As a Nottoway woman, I've been taught that it is our responsibility to be in good relationship with all elements of creation. To be conscientious, grateful, and protective. My favorite way to embrace all three is through outings like kayaking trips. I especially love it when these activities are led by Indigenous people in places where we are working in relationship with the land, water, and community.

I've had the immense pleasure and honor of leading outings on the Nottoway River to showcase the environmental work of my community, the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia, as well as partnering with the Great Coharie River Initiative of the Coharie Indian Tribe of NC to offer a nine-mile paddle through the Black River Refuge, home to the ancient 2,600+ year-old bald cypress trees of Three Sisters Swamp -- the fifth oldest living tree in the world!

Doing the policy work and talking to folks in D.C. is important, but it's just as important to bring folks out on the water to connect with what we're talking about, to see it firsthand. To build understanding and relationships that benefits our water, land, and community for many, many generations to come.

For the Sierra Club, this year's Indigenous Peoples' Day celebrates a huge step forward for us. In September, our Board of Directors passed our first Indigenous Co-stewardship Policy and Guidance. For those wishing to learn more and better engage in these efforts, we are proud to offer you these resources!

Beth Roach (she/her)
National Water Conservation Campaign Manager
Sierra Club