Samantha Redheart
Meet Samantha Redheart
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Samantha Redheart (Yakama) partners with Columbia Riverkeeper in her capacity as STEM Coordinator with the Tribe’s Environmental Restoration Waste Management (ERWM) program. Since 2017, Columbia Riverkeeper has funded a portion of Samantha’s position to increase Hanford cleanup education and outreach on and around the Yakama Indian Reservation.
“We have created a successful partnership that benefits Tribal youth, our community members and makes learning about Hanford engaging,” said Samantha. She noted that ERWM has collaborated with Columbia Riverkeeper to facilitate Hanford nuclear waste presentations for students in grades 8-12 who identify themselves as affiliates of a recognized tribe.
Yakama Nation has successfully facilitated multiple Hanford educational events with invited dignitaries, Tribal leaders, federal, state and local agencies. ERWM and Columbia Riverkeeper partnerships start with a shared goal: to inspire the next generation of advocates for a Hanford cleanup that is thorough and just. “I believe our work is purposeful and impactful for continued Tribal representation for ongoing Hanford cleanup activities,” Samantha said.
“Today our family practices our fishing rights at the Columbia River,” Samantha responded when asked how she connects to the Columbia outside of her work. “My family attends traditional ceremonies throughout the Yakama and Nez Perce communities. We enjoy spending our free time along the Columbia River.”
Columbia Riverkeeper will continue fighting for the opportunity to create a better future.
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