A wooden sculpture in honor of Bernie Whitebear, the late activist who led the 1970 occupation of a park in Washington, is returning to its roots.

"Blue Jay" was created 30 years ago by Lawney Reyes, Bernie's older brother. It was carved in the Daybreak Star Cultural Center, which Bernie helped found after the occupation.

Blue Jay was commissioned by a bank, where it has sat since 1972. The bank decided to donate the sculpture to Daybreak. A ceremony is being held today.

Whitebear died in 2000.

Get the Story:
Sculpture returns to its roots: 'Blue Jay' memorializes late Colville tribe activist (The Seattle Times 2/27)

Relevant Links:
United Indians of All Tribes Foundation - http://www.unitedindians.com

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Memorial to activist brother and sister unveiled (07/10)