The Turtle Island Project exists to provide opportunities and venues by which the voices of First Nations people can be heard.

One of the consequences of racism against First Nations people has been the silencing of their voices, and the eagerness of Euro- Americans to speak for them, thus robbing them of their own freedom of speech.

As a result, much of the "Native American Experience" has been filtered through the lenses of a foreign culture that not only does not have the right, but also lacks the ability to speak to the most fundamental realities of Native experience.

Perhaps this problem was best expressed by the famous Native American author, Vine Deloria Jr. in the title of his fascinating book: "We talk, you listen."

It is our hope that by listening to the voices of First Nations people we can begin a dialogue leading to a more complete and compassionate understanding of God. An understanding based on the place that we all inhabit: North America or Turtle Island, as it is referred to in many Native American creation stories.

It is our belief, that such a dialogue can contribute to the betterment of both communities and is a conversation that is long over due.

In order to facilitate this conversation, all regional and national conferences will include a round table discussion preceding the event itself, open to the public. Native Americans will be invited to come and speak freely of the issues concerning their various communities.

The conferences themselves will be free of charge to all Native American peoples, in honor of their nations, and in the in hope that this will be able to increase their participation.

Rev. Dr. Lynn Hubbard

Director, Turtle Island Project