'Sign of inclusivity': Eugene leaders remark on new Kalapuya mural
EUGENE, Ore. -- Saturday was the ribbon cutting for the Beyond Toxics' "Willamette Wetlands of the Kalapuya Mural in Westmoreland Park.
The mural illustrates a native Kalapuya storyteller speaking about her people, and their ancient and contemporary uses of native plants for food, medicine, and spiritual observances.
Eugene leaders spoke out in celebration of the project.
"It is bigger and bolder and more glorious than I ever could have imagined," Eugene Mayor Lucy Vinis said. "What a wonderful new contribution to our community."
"What we have a witnessed was a sign of inclusivity," Sen. James Manning Jr. of Eugene's District 7 said. "Recognizing the past to promote healing in the future."
This mural is part of a larger project called the "Kalapuya Cultural Project and Wetlands Preservation" sponsored by Beyond Toxics' and Friendly Area Neighbors Equity Action Team, including resources and preservation efforts to protect the native plants within the park.
