Op-Ed

We Are the Carriers of Water

A conversation with Maggie Sanders, the Executive Secretary for the Nisqually Department of Natural Resources, about the importance of storytelling, the transference of traditional ecological knowledge and how to reclaim your voice.

Maggie Sanders has a commanding presence. That thought emerges and crystallizes within a few seconds of meeting her. She gives me a rundown of the projects she’s currently tackling and my eyes widen with each addition to the growing list. Stacks of applications, research articles and project proposals litter the perimeter of her desk.

It is evidence of her tireless commitment to studying climate change resiliency, which she doggedly pursues along with her full-time responsibilities as the Executive Secretary for the Nisqually Department of Natural Resources. As the representative to the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification (OA Alliance), my colleague, Melia Paguirigan had the opportunity to learn about how the Nisqually Tribe emphasizes education and outreach to protect their treaty trust resources, culture and community from the impacts of ocean acidification.

Maggie spoke to me about the importance of storytelling, the transference of traditional ecological knowledge and how to reclaim your voice. I hope she inspires you as she inspired me. […]

Full article: We Are the Carriers of Water