November 14, 2023
Video available at: https://youtu.be/K7zRiPbzTsM
Joe Baker, Executive Director and Co-Founder, Lenape Center: [Speaks in Munsee.] My name is Joe Baker. I’m a member of the Simon Whiteturkey family, one of the families of the main body of Lenape who were displaced and removed to Indian territory in 1869. I recognize my family as through their sacrifice and generosity and love, I’m able to stand before you this evening.
I recognize my third great-grandfather, Captain Anderson Sarcoxie, who signed the Treaty of Greenville in 1795. My fourth great grandfather, White Eyes, who negotiated the first treaty with the U.S. government, the Treaty of Fort Pitt, which was to secure and guarantee an all Lenape state with representation in Congress. He was assassinated by the U.S. militia that same year.
My fifth great-grandfather, Netawatwees, the Treaty of Conestoga, 1768. My sixth great grandfather, Chief Nutimus, who was a consignor of the Walking Purchase with William Penn’s sons in 1787. And my seventh great-grandfather, Tamanend, who signed the Treaty of Shackamaxon with William Penn in 1682.
In my right to speak for my ancestors and my descendants, I declare that we exist and live and work today in Lenapehoking, our homeland and territory that still holds the spirits and voices of our Lenape ancestors, both Munsee and Unami speaking.
We are the grandfathers and the peacemakers having survived hundreds of years of genocide. Please welcome me now… Welcome. Please join me in welcoming Mayor Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City.
Mayor Eric Adams: Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. And for all of you who are here of our indigenous people ancestry, I want to thank you for allowing us to be here on your land.
I cannot…