VtF Co-Chair Joanne Kittel was invited to speak at the 2023 Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Portland in April. The topic: “Building Trust and Relationship in Community Through Authentic Storytelling.” Presenting with her was Adam Davis, ED of Oregon Humanities, Zachary Stocks, ED of Oregon Black Pioneers, and Donald Slyter Chief of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians (CTSI). Bobbi Price, Director of the Yachats Chamber of Commerce was also in attendance.
The presentation was attended by 270 people who filled the meeting space including people sitting on the floor. Joanne described that it was a humbling experience presenting with these panel speakers. She reported “The audience heard about VtF and our activities toward building trust through preserving and sharing the historical truths from our local area. We had the audience applauding and many were brought to tears. But clearly, they were inspired and given both a direction and a challenge. The conference began with CTSI gracing us with a tribal ceremonial dance and Chairman Pigsley providing the opening remarks. ”
Links to Conference Handouts
- Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians and the Community of Yachats Building Reconciliation Between a Previously Divided People
- Bridging Divides between Oregon Communities and Black Visitors
