Speakers: John Vechey, Jay Julius Xw’tot lhem, and Sara Hart. Photo Credit: Jess Newley

Aug 23, 2025, Friday Harbor, WA

As part of the Salish Sea Series, the second gathering offered a heartfelt and inspiring evening on San Juan Island to celebrate the launch of Se’Si’Le’s inaugural book, In the Spirit of Right and Respectful Relations.

Co-hosted by the mission-driven publisher Braided River, the event brought together a panel of contributors whose lived experiences and creative work embody the spirit of the book. Held under the Friday Harbor Landing Clock Tower, the gathering drew a mix of island residents and curious visitors alike.

Speaker Fiorella De La O gifting her artwork to Kurt Russo, Moderator. Photo credit Jess Newley

Moderated by book contributor Kurt Russo, the panel featured Jay Julius, X’wtot lhem (President of Se’Si’Le, Lummi), Artist and Illustrator Fiorella De La O (Quechua), Filmmaker and Activist Sara Hart, and Technologist and Activist John Vechey. Together, they shared personal reflections and insights that invited “newcomers” into a deeper understanding of Indigenous worldviews—ways of being that have guided communities for generations.

The conversation centered on caring for our shared ecosystems, weaving each panelist’s journey along the path of right and respectful relations. The evening concluded with a moving artistic gesture: Fiorella De La O presented original artwork to both Jay Julius and Kurt Russo—symbols of healing, remembrance, and the collective hope for a more respectful future.

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