In recent years, as Westminster members and leaders have become more engaged with the local Narragansett Indian Tribe members, both inviting them to our pulpet for worship services, and as part of Land Acknowledgement conversations, their message to us was clear; The Narragansett People are as an active community "that is still here" (present tense!). Their invitation us has been to encourage us to be in relationship with them, to learn about their community and get to know them as individuals. This, over simple "land acknowledgment" words is what is meaningful to them - and us.
One way we do this is by supporting the Tomaquag Museum. Located in Exeter, the is dedicated to educting the public about indigenous history, culture and arts. It is a small space that packs a lot of punch. It also includes a giftstore with books and handmade items and jewelry. There is a place at the bottom of the museum website to sign up for news and updates via your email.
Another way we connect with this local Indigenous culture is by attending their gatherings sna festivvals. Annual events open to the public include the Strawberry Thanksgiving, the Powwow, and the Cranberry Thanksgiving. Historical information and events scheduled througout the year and can be found on The Narragansett Nation website.
In our effort to educate our congregation about the indigenous people of Rhode Island we are dedicating a specail display and section of our library to continuing this relationship.
We hope you will join us in building relationship with our Indigenous neighbors.