Downstream Discourse: An Ongoing Conversation about Watershed and Human Health

Location: Chain of Rocks Park

Convene at the Mississippi River with Rafael Sousa-Sommo and Andi Gaither of the Native Women’s Care Circle (NWCC) to explore the connections of plants, rivers, and human life, and honor Indigenous stewardship of our watersheds. After an opening ceremony, participants will be welcomed into a conversation about past stewardship, invasive plants and pollution in the modern era, and how to pursue more sustainable options for river health. This event is open to all ages, and will include the opportunity to create seed bombs and share resources and conservation activities provided by NWCC and Great Rivers Greenway.

Registration is encouraged; please click here to sign up.

This event is part of a series of gatherings offered in conjunction with Make the River Present.

Native Women’s Care Circle is an inclusive, Indigenous-led, grassroots prayer group that practices stewardship of the lands and waters. Members up and down the Mississippi River and at waterways around the world meet regularly to offer a prayer for the river: Water, we love you. Water, we thank you. Water, we respect you.

Accessibility notes

• Water, tea, and light lunch will be available.
• There are bicycle racks and parking available at the site for up to 50 cars. Additional vehicle parking available at Chouteau Island Trailhead (4205 Chain of Rocks Road, Granite City, IL 62040), which is a 1 mile walk/bike on greenway bridge to Chain of Rocks Park
• There is a public restroom and a covered shelter available on the site.
• There is amplified sound.
• This event is outdoors. Guests are encouraged to wear layers and sun protection.
• To request an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter for this event, please contact [email protected] with as much prior notice possible to ensure availability.