Join the community in celebrating Billy Frank Jr.’s legacy on March 19

Local residents are encouraged to join the Billy Frank Jr. annual celebration at Timberline High School from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19. 

The free annual event, which is organized by North Thurston Public Schools (NTPS) and the Nisqually Indian Tribe, began in 2019.

“We highlight learning (what) is happening in each of our schools as well as work of partner organizations that relate to the life and legacy of BFJ (Billy Frank Jr.). The themes are always: Civil Disobedience, Environmental Stewardship, Treaty Rights Advocacy, and Service,” NTPS Instructional Specialist Joshua Parker stated in an email to The JOLT News.

Activities

The first part of the event will feature a self-guided visitation of student displays and social services. Students will highlight their art, social studies projects and science partnerships.

The community can also explore local institutions offering teacher prep programs, organizations promoting partnerships with tribes to protect resources, such as Salmon Defense, and the groups behind the facilitation of the Billy Frank Jr. statue project, ArtsWA.

A welcome address from the district and Nisqually Canoe Family kicks off the second part of the celebration at 6:30 p.m.

“Each year, there is a focus presentation after the welcome. This year, it will focus on the return of the King Salmon to the Nisqually River this past run! David Troutt, the head of Nisqually DNR, will present to us about this significant event,” wrote Parker in his email.

Local food trucks will be set up with food for sale, and screening rooms will be set up to view short videos highlighting various topics that relate to the event’s themes.