our planning committee

Hiawatha Jon Brown, an enrolled member of the Narragansett Indian Tribe of Rhode Island and a resident of Newton. He is one of the tribe’s longest-serving Tribal Councilman who served for more than 35 years. Born to the late Mr. John Brown and the late Dr. Ella Sekatuau, Medicine Woman, Linguistic Specialist of Algic and Late Algonquin Woodland Narragansett Language, Hiawatha was raised with a deep respect for Narragansett culture.

Dr. Darlene Flores is a traditional Medicine Keeper for her Taino Higuayagua Caribbean Tribe and facilitates groups in such ceremonial practices. She is also a highly decorated U.S. Veteran for her participation in the War in Iraq where she was a Human Intelligence Collector for Military Intel. Dr. Flores is a Newton resident and mother, and runs and owns Karaya Wellness Clinic in Brookline.

Christa is a neuroscience researcher at Boston University & is interested in researching innovative, accessible, & decolonial solutions that improve mental health. Christa is passionate about creating identity-affirming counterspaces that uplift individuals who experience marginalization & oppression, especially those who are LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, first-generation students, & low-income. Christa is reconnecting with her Taíno roots.

Andromeda Lisle is a multi-medium artist living in Cambridge, MA with her two cats and two ferrets. She received a BS in Fine Arts from Skidmore College and focuses her creative energies on works related to indigenous animal mythos and her own multi-ethnic background consisting of Cherokee, Black, and Irish heritages. Recently she has begun painting public art murals, hoping to further preserve and educate about the cultural importance of animals.

As an individual driven by a deep commitment to social justice and racial equity, Tony strives to make a positive impact in the world around him. He is passionate about advocating for Indigenous rights, recognizing the importance of preserving and honoring their cultures and traditions. And, as a white man, he leverages his privilege to connect funders to the power of  Indigenous people and other marginalized communities. 

Apply here!

Apply here!

Apply here!

Apply here!